Re-Introducing Interim Dean Kevin Foster

Professor Kevin Foster has been a fixture at The City College of New York and the Colin Powell School (formerly the School of Social Sciences) for more than 25 years. A longtime member of the Department of Economics and Business, where he also served as Chair for three years, Foster has worn many hats across the decades. Since 2019, he has been Associate Dean of the Powell School—and this summer, he once again stepped into the role of Interim Dean, following the departure of Dean Andrew Rich.
This is not his first time taking on this leadership challenge. In fact, Foster previously served as Interim Dean during the transition from founding Dean Vince Boudreau to Dean Rich. We sat down with him to discuss his experience, how the role has evolved, and why the Powell School continues to hold a special place in his heart.

On What It Means to Be Interim Dean
“In addition to my regular duties as Associate Dean, I also take on the responsibilities that Andy had,” Foster explains. “I get immense support from the rest of the team but there are inevitable decisions that the Dean must make. Also—A LOT more meetings!”

On Doing It Twice
How does this interim deanship compare to the first? “There are many similarities,” Foster notes. “Last time, I followed a successful dean who had become college president, and I worked to make sure we found the next dean who would be a terrific leader in service to our vital mission. This time, well, same. But the school has grown so much bigger, which makes it harder—and also more exciting—because we now have more super-talented people who can help.”

On His Reputation Among Colleagues and Students
Foster laughs when asked how others might describe him. “I hope that they recognize that I’m passionate about the mission of the school and the success of our students. I’m not always a great communicator in words, but they can see the actions.”

On Where Alumni Have Landed
Having taught for 25 years, Foster keeps in touch with many alumni and takes pride in their journeys. “So many!” he says. “We have folks in high-profile roles across industries, in vital policy work, as entrepreneurs—all working to make the world a better place. Our alumni are in music, finance, health (both mental and physical), consulting, education, analytics, the environment… so many fields.”

On His Advice for Students
As the Fall ’25 semester begins, Foster offers straightforward guidance: “Be prepared to work hard. You’ll learn a lot, but you’ll also work a lot!”

With his steady leadership, deep commitment to student success, and decades-long ties to CCNY, Professor Foster is guiding the Powell School through another moment of transition—ensuring the school continues to thrive as a hub for leadership, scholarship, and impact.