Clark Atlanta University Appoints Dr. Christopher Bass as Interim Dean of Arts and Sciences
On February 4th, 2025, Provost Charlene D. Gilbert sent out an email blast announcing that Dr. Jaideep Chaudhary, the long-serving Dean of Arts and Sciences, would step down after nearly a decade of dedicated service.
He will focus on new commitments as the Director of the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development.
Therefore, the school's top administration has invited Dr. Christopher Bass to serve as the Interim Dean of the Arts and Sciences, which he happily accepted.
He will be more on the administrative side to fulfill the initiatives as the dean but will remain an advisor for Clark Atlanta’s Culture Collective and will teach two courses per semester.
The courses initially taught by Dr.Bass for the Spring 2025 semester have been assigned to a new professor.
"It’s kind of sad that people aren’t going to get that experience of him as their professor but I know he’s going to do great things in his position," said De’Shanti White, a former student.
Students have repeatedly commended Dr. Bass for his teaching approach over the years. They value his openness in sharing personal experiences, his commitment to mentorship, and his heartfelt dedication to ensuring their success. This broad admiration has resulted in overwhelmingly positive feedback and numerous accolades, including being named Professor of the Year for 15 consecutive years.
"I believe that wherever he goes, he’s bound to make an impact," White added.
Over the next two years, Dr. Bass will dedicate his time to nurturing and advancing the Arts and Sciences department. He plans to fully embrace and embody the values and lessons Clark Atlanta has instilled in him since 1988. When students were asked what they would like to see from Dr. Bass, student Ayana Greenwood expressed a desire for "more funding for labs and more tools to conduct labs properly."
Mr. Marcus Kendrick, a staff member at Clark Atlanta, believes that Dr. Bass will not only ensure a smooth transition but also “lead effectively in supporting students and staff.”
Dr. Bass is seeking to spotlight the frequently neglected departments and engage more deeply with the student body. Some initiatives that he has on his radar include a dean’s newsletter, more support for the honors program, and support for students not meeting the 2.5 GPA threshold, with more to be announced soon.
“I get an opportunity to put some things in place, to highlight the faculty, and I get an opportunity to highlight the departments and help to cultivate and make them better.” Dr. Bass said.
Through decades of unwavering dedication, Dr. Bass’ new position will allow him the opportunity to reach new heights and uplift a new generation of scholars.
Excellent job !!!!!