College of Arts and Sciences

Dr. Randall E. Adkins has been named the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, effective July 20. Adkins is the current senior associate dean of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Graduate Education at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Adkins brings leadership experience across the humanities and social sciences, interdisciplinary programs, graduate education and distance learning. He has led initiatives focused on student success, program innovation and operational alignment, working collaboratively with faculty and staff to strengthen shared governance while advancing college-wide priorities. 

He is a strong advocate for the liberal arts, especially in preparing students for a dynamic workforce and engaged citizenship. His leadership emphasizes broad-based knowledge, critical thinking and applied learning. He has contributed to national conversations through his service with the College Board’s Academic Assembly Council, the Advanced Placement Program and the Council of Colleges of Arts and Sciences, where he has been an active presenter, facilitator and contributor to leadership development programs for department chairs.

As a political scientist, Adkins is deeply committed to civic and community engagement and remains an active scholar. His work includes numerous publications in political science journals as well as edited volumes such as The Evolution of Political Parties, Campaigns and Elections and multiple editions of Cases in Congressional Campaigns. He is a former American Political Science Association Congressional Fellow and has received several awards for teaching and research excellence, including the Chancellor’s Excellence in Teaching Award, the Alumni Outstanding Teaching Award and the College of Arts and Sciences Excellence in Research Award. He previously held the Ralph Wardle Diamond Professorship in Arts and Sciences.

“I’m honored to join the University of Memphis at such an important moment,” Adkins said. “The College of Arts and Sciences plays a central role in the University’s academic mission and in the success of its students. I look forward to working with faculty and staff to strengthen student success and completion, support research and creative activity, and build partnerships that extend the college’s impact across Memphis and beyond. My approach is to listen, learn, and work collaboratively to build on the college’s strengths and expand opportunity for our students, faculty, and community.”