Dr. Bethami Dobkin was appointed as 19th President of Westminster College effective July 1, 2018. Prior to her presidency, she served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs of Saint Mary’s College of California for ten years, with a portfolio that included responsibility for academic affairs, enrollment, communications, student affairs, equity and inclusion, institutional research, and technology. Under her leadership, Saint Mary’s College (SMC) earned national recognition for academic excellence and student achievement, including attainment of AACSB accreditation and Hispanic Serving Institution status; rapid increases in retention and graduation rates; increased prominence in national rankings; and significant increases in faculty, staff and student satisfaction with institutional climate and the quality of a Saint Mary’s College educational experience.
Dr. Dobkin has served as Commissioner for the WASC Senior College and University Commission, has been recognized by the San Francisco Business Times as one of the Bay Area’s “Most Influential Women,” and was named by Diablo Magazine as one of the “2013 Women to Watch.” Her considerable volunteer services have included activity as a Board Member for the Foundation for Hispanic Education, and as Secretary and Board member for Ujima Family Recovery Services.
Dr. Dobkin also has a distinguished history as a faculty member and academic leader. She attained full professor status while at the University of San Diego (1990-2008). Her publications span academic journals, widely used textbooks, and popular editorials on politics, journalism, and communication. Her honors have included a fellowship in executive leadership with the American Council on Education, teaching awards, and lifetime membership in the academic honor society, Phi Kappa Phi.
