Thomas Horvath

thomas horvath

What is your current position, and how many years have you been a dean?
One and a half years as Interim Dean, College of Sciences, California State, Monterey Bay.

What advice would you give new deans?
Build a wide collaborative network across boundaries, nationally and even internationally. They will provide support when you can’t talk to anyone on your campus.

What would you say is your most meaningful contribution as dean?
As a biologist by training, I started a mechatronics program at Cal State. After four years of work the first 50 students started the program in the fall of 2024.
I/we are also proud supporters of NTTFs (non-tenure track faculty).

When you think about the liberal arts, what gives you a sense of hope?
There is plenty of opportunity for interdisciplinary focus within the liberal arts such as teaching and research, lots of opportunities for collaboration.

Why are you a member of CCAS?
CCAS was the first organization in the United States that I interacted with and I knew immediately that these were the types of people I wanted to know and work with. The conversations, the seminars, it is all very supportive.

What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I’m an avid cyclist and I love football (the real football—soccer) and I used to referee at a fairly high level (D1, NCAA).

What are you currently reading?
The Legacy of Conquest: The Unbroken Past of the American West
by Patricia Nelson Limerick Ph.D.