Temple University School of Communications and Theater Dean Concetta Stewart has been appointed dean of Pratt Institute’s School of Art and Design in New York City. Her appointment will begin July 20.

Provost Lisa Staiano-Coico has appointed Associate Dean Thomas Jacobson as the interim dean.

“Concetta’s energetic and inspirational leadership has been invaluable in guiding the development and growth of the School of Communications and Theater. Her foresight into the ever-evolving and expanding world of communications and her deep commitment to the arts has positioned our students for success,” said the provost. “We will be sorry to see her go, but we are grateful for her long service to Temple.”

Stewart has been dean since 2000. Previously, she served as the inaugural chair of the University’s Department of Broadcasting, Telecommunications, and Mass Media, as well as a faculty fellow and an associate professor of communications. She joined the Temple faculty in 1993.

“It has been a real privilege to be able to work with so many talented and dedicated people throughout my years at Temple,” said Stewart. “I am particularly pleased with what we have been able to achieve in the School of Communications and Theater, and I look forward to hearing about many more wonderful things to come for both the school and the university.”

Some of Stewart’s most significant accomplishments during her deanship at Temple include doubling enrollment and personnel, creating an effective Board of Visitors, leading cutting-edge technology initiatives, and establishing a fundraising culture that resulted in the school raising more than $10 million over 8 years including $2.5 million in research and technology grants.

As dean of the School of Art and Design, Stewart will be responsible for leading Pratt’s largest school with more than 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students in 15 degree programs, many of which are ranked among the top in the country.