BINGHAMTON, NY -- Anne McCall will be the next dean of Harpur College of Arts and Sciences at Binghamton University.

A scholar of 19th-century French literature and, for the past five years, dean of arts, humanities and social sciences at the University of Denver, McCall will assume her duties on Aug. 1, 2013.

McCall said that she enjoyed her interaction with faculty and students when she visited Binghamton’s campus in mid-March and is thrilled to be joining Harpur College because of its commitment to excellence in undergraduate education as well as graduate studies and research. “Students in Harpur College learn from renowned experts who care deeply about them. Together they are developing important knowledge about human culture, understanding and our natural world. It’s an honor to join this dynamic academic environment.”

Provost Donald Nieman said that he is impressed by McCall’s breadth of experience at several outstanding institutions, as well as her passion for the liberal arts, broad understanding of the needs of the wide range of disciplines that are part of Harpur College and her ability to think strategically.

“Anne impressed the campus community during her visit,” he said, “and I am confident that her understanding of the liberal arts and sciences, commitment to excellence, international experience and strong intellect will enable her lead Harpur and build on its long tradition of excellence.”

President Harvey Stenger, who met with McCall during her visit to campus, described her as a good fit for Binghamton. “She is smart and very articulate,” he said, “and has the experience and leadership skills that will allow her to work with faculty and students to make a great college even better.”

McCall was born in Washington, D.C., grew up in Cincinnati and considers herself a New Orleanian. She earned her bachelor of arts, with “highest distinction,” from the University of Virginia and her doctorate from the University of Strasbourg. An authority on the work of the 19th-century French novelist, playwright and memoirist George Sand, McCall is the author of one book and 26 scholarly articles and book chapters, and has edited one book and several scholarly journals. She is completing a book exploring law and literature in 19th-century France.

Before becoming dean at the University of Denver, McCall taught at Vassar College and Tulane University. She is the recipient of Tulane’s Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award and is a past president of the George Sand Association.

McCall, who lived in France and Spain for 10 years before beginning her professional career in American universities, values international experiences and perspectives. Experiences during and after Hurricane Katrina were important in shaping her understanding of resiliency, solidarity and change. In her spare time, she enjoys visiting her adult children, watching foreign movies and learning new athletic activities, such as cross-country skiing.