In her new role, Cass will play a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape of Catawba College, overseeing a spectrum of academic initiatives aimed at fostering excellence and student success.
“Dr. Cass is an outstanding addition to our team,” said Dr. Monica Cowart, Catawba’s Executive Vice President and Provost. “Her wealth of experience and dedication to academic excellence will undoubtedly contribute significantly to our mission of providing a transformative educational experience for our students.”
Cass joins Catawba College from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), where she currently serves as the Graduate Program Director at the School of Art and the Director of Creative Engagement Programs. With an illustrious career at RIT, she has held various leadership positions, including Provost’s Associate for the Integration of Technology, the Arts, and Design, and the Interim Dean in the College of Art and Design.
Throughout her tenure, Cass has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and student-centered learning.
Dr. Cass holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University, a Master of Fine Arts from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture/Glass from the Rhode Island School of Design. She also obtained a Management and Leadership Education certificate from Harvard Graduate School of Education. Her dedication to continuous learning reflects her commitment to excellence in academia.
“I’m thrilled to join such an accomplished team of professionals on Catawba’s gorgeous campus,” shares Cass. “I'm especially excited about the opportunity to partner with college leadership to elevate the student experience. Whether supporting academic excellence and achievement, fostering personal and professional growth, or cultivating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, I look forward to being part of a community dedicated to holistic student success. I’m ready to help advance Catawba’s vital work of preparing young people to thrive personally and professionally in alignment with the world’s needs. It's inspiring to know that our efforts directly contribute to both individual student success and the betterment of society as a whole”.
Cass will be relocating to Rowan County with her husband, Bill Klingensmith.
