Westermann brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She has been serving as the Executive Vice President of the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation since 2010, overseeing programs and research initiatives. In 2016, she was promoted to this executive role, where she launched initiatives promoting the value of the humanities and liberal arts, strengthened community colleges, encouraged graduate education reform, renewed preservation of cultural heritage globally, and supported scholars and artists at risk.
Prior to her tenure at the Mellon Foundation, Westermann held significant positions at NYU. She served as the Director of the Institute of Fine Arts and was the first Provost of NYU Abu Dhabi from 2007 to 2010. During her time as Provost, she played a pivotal role in hiring the startup team and initial faculty, shaping the curriculum, launching the NYU Abu Dhabi Institute, and fostering relationships within the Abu Dhabi community.
In addition to her administrative roles, Westermann is a respected scholar in the field of art history, specializing in the art of the Netherlands, her native country. She has published extensively and is currently preparing an exhibition and book on the resonance of the Garden of Eden in the history, theology, and art of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Westermann's academic journey began with a magna cum laude undergraduate degree from Williams College, where she was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. She later earned her Master's and Ph.D. degrees from NYU's Institute of Fine Arts. Her career includes faculty positions at Rutgers University from 1995 to 2001 and serving as Associate Director of the Clark Art Institute before joining NYU in 2002.
Her appointment as Vice Chancellor of NYU Abu Dhabi is seen as a significant step in the institution's development. President Hamilton expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled by the appointment of Mariet Westermann. In choosing a new Vice Chancellor, we sought someone who would not only be a leader capable of taking NYU Abu Dhabi into its next stage but who would also contribute to NYU's leadership globally and be a real presence in the cultural and intellectual life of Abu Dhabi."
Westermann herself remarked, "It is a great honor and calling to serve as NYU Abu Dhabi’s Vice Chancellor. In a brief nine years, NYU Abu Dhabi has become a unique, flourishing institution of higher education: in and of New York University, in and of Abu Dhabi, in and of the world, with a truly diverse and engaged student community, an outstanding and dedicated faculty, an innovative undergraduate curriculum, and an ambitious research agenda."
In her new role, Westermann will also be appointed as a Professor of Arts and Humanities at NYU Abu Dhabi. Her leadership is expected to further enhance the university's reputation as a leading global institution, fostering academic excellence and cultural exchange.
Westermann's appointment comes at a time when NYU Abu Dhabi is poised for further growth and development. Her extensive experience in academia and administration positions her well to lead the university into its next phase, building on its strong foundation and guiding it toward new achievements in research, education, and community engagement.
Her return to NYU Abu Dhabi is welcomed by many who remember her contributions during the university's formative years. Her deep understanding of the institution's mission and her commitment to its values are anticipated to drive continued success and innovation.
Westermann's vision for NYU Abu Dhabi includes strengthening its research capabilities, expanding academic programs, and enhancing student experiences. She aims to build on the university's existing strengths while exploring new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Her appointment is also significant in the broader context of higher education in the region. As Vice Chancellor, Westermann is expected to play a key role in shaping the future of higher education in Abu Dhabi and the wider Middle East, contributing to the region's cultural and intellectual development.
Westermann's leadership style is characterized by a commitment to inclusivity, academic freedom, and cross-cultural dialogue. Her colleagues describe her as a visionary leader with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of education and the arts.
Her return to NYU Abu Dhabi is seen as a homecoming by many who worked with her during the university's early years. Her familiarity with the institution's culture and her previous contributions are expected to facilitate a smooth transition and continuity in leadership.
Westermann's appointment has been met with enthusiasm from the academic community, both within NYU and beyond. Her colleagues commend her scholarly achievements, leadership skills, and dedication to fostering academic excellence.
As she prepares to assume her new role, Westermann has expressed her excitement about returning to Abu Dhabi and contributing to the university's ongoing success. She has highlighted the importance of building on the strong foundation established by her predecessors and working collaboratively with faculty, students, and staff to achieve shared goals.
Her vision for NYU Abu Dhabi includes a focus on interdisciplinary research, global engagement, and community partnerships. She aims to position the university as a leader in addressing global challenges through innovative education and research initiatives.
Westermann's appointment is also significant in the context of NYU's global network. Her experience and leadership are expected to strengthen connections between NYU's campuses in New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai, fostering greater collaboration and exchange among students and faculty.
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