Steinmetz Leads Arts and Sciences
Joseph Steinmetz, Ph.D., psychology, former Dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at the University of Kansas, became Ohio State’s Executive Dean and Vice Provost for the College of Arts and Sciences in July. Steinmetz brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and energy that will allow him to move Ohio State forward as a national leader in the Arts and Sciences. Part of his efforts will be directed toward facilitating the structural reorganization begun last year by Interim Executive Dean, Joan R. Leitzel.
Steinmetz, who tells everyone to call him "Joe," is enthusiastic about his new post. "I am very excited to be here," he said. "I'm looking forward to meeting faculty, staff and students here at Ohio State. Heading this comprehensive and outstanding arts and sciences college is a dream job for me."
We recently asked Joe some things we thought people might like to know:
What is your own academic background in arts and sciences?
I was trained as an experimental psychologist and behavioral neuroscientist; my general research interest over the years has been in how brain function changes during learning and memory. I have also been interested in changes in the brain that underlie a variety of clinical disorders, including autism, schizophrenia and fetal alcohol syndrome.
How are you and your family settling into Columbus? What area have you chosen to call home?
I am married to Sandy Steinmetz, who is a high school special education teacher. We have two children, Jacob and Adam; both are married. Jacob and his wife Kristen live in Bloomington, Indiana and have two children—Drew and Ian. He is an elementary school assistant principal. Adam and his wife Lauren live in Iowa City, Iowa. Adam is a graduate student at the University of Iowa in neuroscience.
Sandy and I have made a rather smooth transition to Columbus and really enjoy living here. We are living in a condo in Downtown Columbus and enjoy being close to the many restaurants, galleries and other things that the area has to offer.
Now that you’re a Buckeye, will you be going to the ’Shoe on Saturdays? Yes, we have season tickets and are looking forward to attending Ohio State football games. Sandy and I enjoy college football and are thrilled to be at a "football school" for a change.
You will be able to give Joe a great Ohio State welcome this fall. A reception for Arts and Sciences’ faculty and staff is being planned to welcome Joe and to recognize outstanding faculty and staff efforts during this past year.
