UA Little Rock names Clifton interim dean of College of Business, Health, and Human Services

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has announced Dr. Tom Clifton will serve as the interim dean of the College of Business, Health, and Human Services effective July 1.

“I want to thank Dr. Clifton for his willingness to serve in this interim capacity,” said Dr. Ann Bain, provost and executive vice chancellor. “His experience serving as an interim dean, his knowledge as the head of the UA Little Rock School of Art and Design, and his familiarity with engaging our community and business partners will be of great benefit to the College of Business, Health, and Human Services.”

Clifton is currently the director of the UA Little Rock School of Art and Design, and he previously served two years as interim dean of the College of Arts, Letters, and Sciences, during which he oversaw the opening of the Windgate Center of Art and Design.

Clifton received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Minnesota State University and a Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design. He is a Fulbright scholar who studied the art and culture of Egypt at Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt.

He replaces Dr. Deborah Baldwin, associate provost, who has been serving in an interim capacity since August.

“I greatly appreciate Dr. Deborah Baldwin’s work in this role this academic year,” said Bain. “Her leadership ensured the College of Business, Health, and Human Services met key objectives this year, including re-accreditation visits for both our business and nursing programs.”

A national search for a permanent replacement will begin in Fall 2023.