Benjamin Withers, who currently serves as dean of the College of Liberal Arts at Colorado State University, has been named the next dean of Iowa State University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. He will begin his new role April 15, 2024, replacing Dean Beate Schmittmann, who will retire in summer 2024 after serving for 12 years in the position. “Benjamin Withers brings a wealth of experience to Iowa State University, including service as a department chair, dean and associate provost,” ISU President Wendy Wintersteen said in a prepared statement. “Withers also understands the deep value of public and land-grant institutions, and we are pleased he will build upon the legacy of Dean Schmittmann.” Withers has a bachelor’s degree from Carleton College, as well as master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Chicago, all in art history. He previously served at Indiana University South Bend and the University of Kentucky before joining Colorado State as dean in 2016.