As David Boardman steps into his new role as interim provost of Temple University, Deborah A. Cai has been appointed Acting Dean of the Lew Klein College of Media and Communication, effective July 15, 2025. 

Cai, who previously served as senior associate dean for faculty affairs and research, will lead Klein through a pivotal year as the college continues to advance its strategic goals and prepares for its transition to a new facility. 

“This is a moment of both transition and continuity,” Cai shared in a message to the Klein community. “Our strategic plan remains a guiding framework, and I look forward to working with you to advance our priorities and lift our creative and research profile across the college.” 

Cai will continue many of her former responsibilities as senior associate dean while serving as acting dean, overseeing all areas of the college except fundraising and building construction, which will remain under Boardman’s purview while serving as interim provost. She emphasized that this collaborative leadership structure will provide consistency and clarity during the year ahead. 

“Klein’s momentum continues, grounded in our shared purpose and our commitment to innovation, collaboration and excellence,” she said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to shape what’s next—for our students, for our scholarship and for Klein College as a whole.” 

Cai is a respected scholar in intercultural communication, negotiation and conflict management, and social influence. She has long been a central figure in Klein’s academic leadership and brings a thoughtful, inclusive approach to her new role. 

As the college prepares for the fall semester and the return of faculty and students, Cai says she looks forward to engaging with the community through listening sessions, collaborative planning, and a shared vision for what’s next. 

In this new role, she will be introduced more formally to students and faculty during welcome communications in August and upcoming fall events.