Reimagining the Liberal Arts at Carroll

As Carroll celebrates 175 years of rich liberal arts tradition, the new Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Kareem Muhammad, hopes to build on that legacy. In his new role, Muhammad will focus on reimagining how Carroll delivers a holistic education in conjunction with the university’s strategic plan, Pioneer Driven. Aside from Carroll’s history, mission and size, its dynamic community first attracted Muhammad to the university. 

“Carroll does not treat students like numbers,” Muhammad said. “The devoted faculty, students and staff have such a genuine camaraderie, which explains why the institution has strong cohesion.” Muhammad brings nearly two decades of teaching experience to Carroll, most recently serving as the Dean of the Division of Business, Education and Social Sciences at Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina. 

Having been a first-generation college student himself, Muhammad understands how a college education can transform lives. He says Carroll can expect passion, a strong work ethic and a serious commitment to learning this fall. 

“I really take to heart how an education can empower people,” Muhammad said. “I want to remove as many barriers as possible, while also holding students accountable.” Muhammad also makes history as the first Black dean at Carroll. He hopes to support underrepresented students with their own career opportunities.

In that spirit, Muhammad emphasizes how the value of liberal arts has become more apparent among employers today. He believes this background makes graduates more inclusive and challenges us to think in new ways, bridging gaps. 

“If we can change the paradigm in terms of how we see issues facing society today – take  how we approach mental health challenges, for example – we can use science to explain the world we live in, and begin to tackle these problems,” Muhammad said.

Most of all, Muhammad looks forward to working closely with and learning from students on campus this fall. “The students are always the ones who make a campus what it is," he said.