Indiana State University Newsroom

Dr. Melinda R. Roberts, Interim Dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Southern Indiana, has been selected Dean of Indiana State University’s College of Arts and Sciences.

Roberts starts at ISU on July 18.

Roberts has been at the University of Southern Indiana since 2009, serving in positions including Associate Dean, Professor of Criminal Justice, and Director of Gender Studies.

In 2017, she was among 20 people selected by News 4U magazine for the 40 and Under Award for the most influential people in Evansville’s Tri-State region.

“I’m thrilled that Dr. Roberts is coming to ISU,” said Dr. Christopher Olsen, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “She is an accomplished scholar with a history of creative, interdisciplinary teaching and community engagement, a record that underscores her readiness to engage with the mission and values of ISU. It was clear during the search and in her interview on campus that she possesses the dynamic vision and energy to lead our largest college to new heights. Dr. Roberts is joining us at such an exciting time as we launch the Indiana State Advantage with the fall 2022 class.”

Roberts said she’s honored to have been chosen.

“ISU has an incredibly strong reputation, excellent and distinctive programs, and is highly engaged in the community,” she said. “I am looking forward to working with the faculty, staff, students, and university leadership to help build upon what the university and the College of Arts and Sciences have already achieved. Together, we will provide transformative education that ensures student success at the university, in their careers, and beyond.”

Roberts received her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Maryville College in Tennessee. She earned her master’s degree and Ph.D in Criminal Justice from Washington State University.

Photo of Dr. Melinda R. Roberts