Harvey Mudd College Announces Appointment of Karl Haushalter as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty

Harvey Mudd College has announced the appointment of Karl Haushalter as its next Vice President for Academic Affairs and R. Michael Shanahan Dean of the Faculty, effective July 1, 2025.

Haushalter, currently Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Seely Wintersmith Mudd Professor of Chemistry and Biology, has been a member of the Harvey Mudd faculty since 2003. A distinguished scholar and educator, he brings over two decades of teaching and leadership experience as well as a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and innovation to the role.

“Karl’s deep understanding of Harvey Mudd’s mission and his proven record of leadership make him an outstanding choice for this role,” said President Harriet Nembhard. “His dedication to fostering a collaborative and inclusive academic environment, paired with his visionary thinking, will help shape the future of our academic endeavors at Harvey Mudd.”

During his tenure as Chemistry Department chair, Haushalter has spearheaded initiatives that have strengthened the College’s chemistry program, including leading a successful reaccreditation with the American Chemical Society, developing a new joint major in Chemistry and Climate in collaboration with the Hixon Center for Climate and the Environment, and recruiting exceptional faculty members. His efforts have enhanced student involvement through the Chem Chair Student Advisory Committee and secured significant philanthropic support for departmental initiatives.

Haushalter also has served in key roles beyond his department, including as Associate Dean of Research and Experiential Learning, where he expanded opportunities for summer research and community engagement. His research in the biochemistry of DNA and RNA interactions, coupled with his focus on the societal implications of science, exemplifies the interdisciplinary approach that defines Harvey Mudd. He also has been instrumental in the College’s strategic planning process, co-chairing the Task Force on Clinic and Corporate Partnerships to explore how Harvey Mudd can further enhance and develop exemplary partnerships to advance the College’s mission and the opportunities it offers students. Karl also serves as an Ambassador for Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Responsibilities (SENCER), the flagship program of the National Center for Science and Civic Engagement. 

“It is an honor to be entrusted with this role,” said Haushalter. “I am deeply committed to the College’s mission, and I look forward to working collaboratively with the talented faculty, staff, and students to further our shared vision.”

Haushalter holds a PhD in Chemistry from Harvard University and a B.A. in Chemistry, summa cum laude, from Rice University. His extensive scholarship and teaching have been recognized with numerous awards, including Outstanding Faculty Mentor at Harvey Mudd.