Interim Provost Lawson's Bio
Dr. Andrew Lawson is Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB). As Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Lawson provides central and academic leadership with primary responsibility to plan, develop, and administer all aspects of the university’s programs, activities, personnel, and budget in the support of students and student learning.
CSUMB is both a Minority Serving Institution and a Hispanic Serving Institution, with a vibrant, diverse student body of over 7,600 students and growing. Within the Academic Affairs administrative division, six colleges oversee CSUMB's academic operations. The university currently offers a total of 25 undergraduate degrees with over 30 concentrations, 38 minors, eight graduate degrees, and several teacher-certification options.
In July 2023, Dr. Lawson was appointed Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, after serving as CSUMB’s Dean of the College of Science since 2016. Prior to coming to CSUMB, Dr. Lawson served as Interim Dean, Associate Dean and Professor of Entomology at CSU Fresno.
Dr. Lawson completed a bachelor’s degree in biology from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and a Ph.D. in entomology from the University of California, Berkeley. His graduate and post-doctoral work focused on using natural enemies to control urban forest insect pests. Since joining the CSU in 2001, Dr. Lawson led a successful research program focused on integrated pest management in almonds, grapes, pistachios, and urban forest systems. At CSUMB, he has led efforts to expand academic programs in agriculture and engineering and secured grants to support student success and diversity in STEM fields. He has also been active in engaging with our regional community and providing support and opportunities for all CSUMB students.