Xan Arch begins her new position as Dean of the Portland State University University Library on August 1, 2024.
“Xan is a proven leader in library services and her expertise in serving first-generation students is especially well-suited for the Portland State community as so many of our students are the first in their families to attend college,” said interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Shelly Chabon. “We are delighted to welcome her into this role and to PSU.”
In her former position as Dean of the Library at the University of Portland, Arch developed library initiatives to support student success and belonging within the library. Prior to joining the University of Portland, Arch worked in collections management at both Reed College and Stanford University. Arch earned a Master of Library and Information Science from San Jose State University, and a Master of Arts in English Literature and BA in English and French Literatures from Stanford University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Education and Leadership from Pacific University.
“I have long admired PSU’s mission and commitment to serve the city, as well as the dedicated Millar Library team,” Arch said. “I look forward to working with and learning from my new colleagues.”
Chabon expressed her heartfelt thanks to Michael Bowman, Interim University Library Dean since 2020, for his long service and unwavering commitment to the Library and to PSU. She also offered her deepest gratitude to the University Library Dean Search Committee.