Vision Statement
The College of Arts and Letters will be recognized as an innovative leader in liberal arts education and
interdisciplinary studies in the mid-Atlantic region, acknowledged for its ability to prepare students to be
critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, effective communicators, and engaged citizens.
Mission Statement
As the largest and most diverse college on campus, the College of Arts and Letters serves as a core
intellectual and cultural center for ODU and the communities it serves, promoting and extending knowledge of the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Our students become engaged citizens and skilled professionals through learning opportunities that foster:
- Appreciation of the diverse cultural and aesthetic heritage of humankind, recognition of the challenges
that face contemporary societies, and understanding of the complexities of human experience; - Development of the essential skills of critical reading and thinking, effective communication,
technological proficiency, and creative problem solving. - Cultivation of the qualities of intellectual honesty, freedom of thought, ethical action, and dedication to
equity, inclusivity, and justice. These qualities enable students to successfully navigate the challenges
of work and citizenship in an increasingly globalized world.
The College and its faculty are committed to active scholarship that integrates innovative teaching with
internationally-recognized research and creative endeavors. The College provides both graduate and
undergraduate students with valuable opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research and
transformational learning experiences. The College also offers advanced training and qualifications in a
variety of fields, preparing graduate students for further research and professional careers.
Message from the Dean
Faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends:
Thanks for your interest in ODU's College of Arts and Letters — a place where scholarship, innovation, creativity and the pursuit of social justice converge to change lives and strengthen communities.
I'm proud to lead the largest college within Old Dominion University, and not just because it's an honor to guide this robust, multifaceted organization. I get to see, almost every day, how knowledge and experience transform our students. I see how they, in turn, use their understanding and vision to shape a better future for our region, our Commonwealth, and our nation.
Another perk: I get to shout encouragement and praise from the sidelines as our faculty distinguish themselves through research, programming, and artistic excellence. ODU's reputation for leadership in many facets of the College of Arts and Letters is growing. That's a joy to see. For evidence, continue browsing this site.
Of course, this kind of progress can't happen in a vacuum. We get invaluable guidance from the college's Executive Advisory Board whose investments of time and imagination create amazing opportunities.
I'm also fortunate to work with donors who support our mission to educate, illuminate, and engage. If you contribute, we cannot thank you enough for helping our student achieve their dreams.
Arts and Letters is diverse both in terms of our students and the subjects we teach. One of the university's core values is accessibility. We take that goal seriously and build an inclusive culture as we search for new ways to open doors to prospective students.
Finally, I want to say how lucky I am to work with such a remarkable team. The college's staff and faculty strive for excellence and gracefully clear the obstacles that inevitably arise.
Together, we put students on course to success. With Monarchs in the lead, our future is in good hands.
Laura Delbrugge
Dean
College of Arts and Letters
Old Dominion University