Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Dr. Sergio La Porta. Photo: ASP Archive
Claire Kasaian
Staff Writer
Haig & Isabel Berberian Professor of Armenian Studies, Dr. Sergio La Porta has accepted a new position, effective August 19, 2019, as Interim Dean of the College of Arts of Humanities for the 2019-2020 academic year.
When asked how he feels about this new position, Dr. La Porta stated, “I feel very honored and excited to be the new Interim Associate Dean.” For Dr. La Porta, the most exciting part about becoming the Interim Associate Dean is having a greater ability to help the students reach their maximum potential. “I also enjoy working with all the departments on campus, seeing the different projects they are undertaking, and learning about their future plans.
Dr. La Porta was appointed as the Haig & Isabel Berberian Chair of Armenian Studies in 2009. “I did not ever see myself in this position [Interim Associate Dean],” stated Dr. La Porta. “This is really something I only thought of because of the leadership of Provost Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval and the Interim Dean, Dr. Honora Chapman. Their vision for the College and the University is one I share and I feel very fortunate to be working with them.”
Dr. La Porta’s goals for the College of Arts and Humanities will benefit the university and the college in many ways. These goals have been inspired by his own love of travel and his interest in supporting student success.
Dr. La Porta would like to increase student participation in the Study Abroad Program, which would allow students to experience life overseas and also create opportunities for possible jobs and internships. This would demonstrate to students how their degrees could impact their lives, and how the skills they learned to get their degree can help them in the workforce.
Dr. La Porta also wants to increase the supplemental instruction and tutoring available to the students as well as increase the College’s interaction with the community and local high schools.
The biggest goal, however, is to promote the College’s capital campaign to build a Performing Arts Center. This center will have a Concert Hall as well as have gallery space, and faculty offices.
The Center would also include a space for an Armenian Studies Center. A Performing Arts Center will give students a place to showcase their talents to the community.
“I believe the College of Arts and Humanities is the most important part of Fresno State. I see the college as the intellectual and creative glue that keeps the rest of the university together and ensures that our students, regardless of their major, are educated individuals who will continue to ask questions and learn throughout their lives,” concluded Dr. La Porta.