Cohen and Hempton named deans of Radcliffe Institute and Harvard Divinity School

Lizabeth Cohen named Radcliffe dean; David N. Hempton named Divinity School dean

Lizabeth Cohen and David N. Hempton

Lizabeth Cohen and David N. Hempton | From left: photograph by Kris Snibbe/Harvard News Office; Stephanie Mitchell/Harvard News Office

Jones professor of American studies Lizabeth Cohen, interim dean of the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study since last July, has been appointed dean. In a March 8 announcement, President Drew Faust cited her dedication to the “pursuit of new ideas and collaborations across the academic disciplines, the professions, and the creative arts.” Cohen, an American social and political historian, called Radcliffe “Harvard’s front door—open and welcoming to all who seek intellectual nourishment and creative inspiration.”

On March 30, Faust appointed David N. Hempton, McDonald Family professor of Evangelical theological studies, the dean of Harvard Divinity School, succeeding William A. Graham, who steps down on June 30. Hempton joined the faculty in 2007. He said he welcomed “the opportunity to engage with colleagues…across the University to improve Harvard’s approach to the study of religion.”

You might also like

He was Harvard’s quintessential people person.

Phase A of the Allston project includes a hotel, residences, and a two-acre greenway.

Harvard will rename the building following a $100 million gift from Stuart Zimmer ’91.

Most popular

The Supreme Court Affirmative Action Rulings: An Analysis

The underlying arguments project clashing worldviews of race and appropriate remedies.

An animal’s journey from grief to love shows how much humans need each other, too.

The Secrets of Haiti’s Living Dead

 A Harvard botanist investigates mystic potions, voodoo rites, and the making of zombies.

Explore More From Current Issue

Label showing the anatomy of a worker bee, featuring a detailed illustration.

Science and art capture the microscopic natural world.

Harvey Mansfield seated in a bright yellow chair, surrounded by bookshelves and cozy decor.

The retired government professor has been a rare conservative voice on campus for decades.

Vibrant urban scene at dusk featuring a mural on a building and illuminated structures.

The Goel Center in Allston will open for performances in the fall of 2026.