Feb. 22, 2013 –The University of Utah has appointed Cynthia Berg, professor of psychology at the U, as interim dean for the College of Social and Behavioral Science, effective July 1, 2013, pending approval of the Board of Trustees.

“Cynthia has a distinguished record as a leader at the university, and is widely respected by her colleagues and students as a researcher,” said Michael L. Hardman, interim senior vice president for academic affairs. “We expect a smooth transition in college leadership and during the formal search for a permanent dean.”

Berg joined the U faculty in 1986 and has served as the chair and director of graduate studies in the department of psychology. In her administrative roles, she has led initiatives to improve graduate student mentorship, faculty development and undergraduate instruction.

Her research focuses on developmental and health psychology, examining how individuals cope with chronic illness—such as diabetes and cancer—within close relationships and families. She has published over 100 articles and book chapters in top outlets in her field, and she serves on editorial boards of the Journal of Family Psychology, the Journal of Gerontology, and Psychology and Aging. Berg has won numerous awards for her research and mentoring, most recently, the 2012 Irwin Altman Award for Distinguished Research, Teaching, Mentoring and Service.

Berg holds a master’s and Ph.D. in psychology from Yale University and received her undergraduate degree from University of Washington.