Dayna Touron

Dr. Dayna Touron serves as Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Louisville, having joined UofL in July 2023. As an academic leader with a Ph.D., she brings expertise in the psychology of aging and cognition to her administrative role while championing the transformative power of liberal arts education.

Her research focuses on aging and cognitive processes, with particular interest in how educational experiences shape lifelong cognitive development. Touron strongly advocates for experiential learning opportunities, emphasizing that employers increasingly value work-study experience and oral communication skills above technical competencies alone. She believes in the critical importance of education for scientific progress, civic engagement, and healthy society formation.

Touron has spearheaded initiatives to improve student outcomes, noting the College's record 94% fall-to-spring persistence rate—the highest in UofL history. She actively promotes campus resources, advising students to take advantage of writing centers, tutoring services, and faculty office hours. Her leadership has driven record enrollment and retention at the College.

Among her notable initiatives is the Dean's Advancement Council Mentoring Program, connecting current students with the College's 60,000 alumni network of business leaders, judges, and community influencers. Touron encourages students to seek internships through departmental programs, attend Cardinal Career Fairs, and utilize Handshake for employment opportunities.

As an administrator, she emphasizes the importance of students connecting with faculty, asking 'why' regarding their academic pursuits, staying organized, and building study routines. She believes these practices help students navigate challenging periods and make meaningful connections that support both academic and professional development.