Tamara Sumner appointed interim dean of University Libraries

Provost Russell Moore today announced his appointment of Tamara Sumner as interim dean of University Libraries, effective July 1. Sumner succeeds Robert McDonald, who recently accepted a leadership position at the University of Texas at Austin.

“Tammy is a seasoned and respected administrator with ties to University Libraries through her past work,” Moore said. “Through her strong leadership capabilities and research experience, I am confident that she’ll provide a stabilizing influence through this time of transition.” 

Sumner currently serves as the director of the Institute of Cognitive Science (ICS) and is a professor in computer and cognitive science. ICS’s mission is to advance interdisciplinary research and training in cognitive science. Massimo Ruzzene, senior vice chancellor for research and innovation and dean of the institutes, is appointing Cinnamon Bidwell to serve as interim director for ICS until Sumner returns to her role as director.

Bidwell is a clinical psychologist who has done groundbreaking research into cannabis, cannabinoids, alcohol and nicotine. Named a 2023 RIO Faculty Fellow, she conducts creative and innovative research that not only advances scientific understanding but also informs clinical practices and public health policies.

Sumner leads an interdisciplinary research and development lab that studies how computational tools—combining cognitive science, machine intelligence and interactive media—can improve teaching practice, learning outcomes and learner engagement in STEM fields. She has extensive research publications in human-computer interaction, educational technology, digital libraries and intelligent systems. Her teaching focuses on cognitive science research methods and user-centered design.

Sumner holds both a bachelor of science in earth science and a bachelor of arts degree in computer and information science from the University of California Santa Cruz, and a master’s and a doctorate in computer science from CU Boulder. 

“It is an honor to serve University Libraries as interim dean during this important time,” Sumner said. “I look forward to meeting and interacting with libraries faculty and staff and moving ahead, together, to serve CU Boulder’s community and help drive its academic mission.” 

Sumner will serve as interim dean until a permanent dean is appointed. Moore said plans for launching a national search for a permanent dean of University Libraries will be announced soon, along with plans for filling McDonald’s other role—senior vice provost of online education and extended education.