Paul A. Dodd

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Dr. Paul Dodd’s remarkable association with UCLA began more than 50 years ago. Former chancellor Franklin Murphy said of him, “There is no one who played a more important role in bringing UCLA to a position of scholarly distinction, recognized worldwide.”

Earning his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania, Dodd joined the UCLA faculty in 1932. He served as dean of the College of Letters and Science from 1946 to 1961, having a profound impact on its programs by raising curricula to the highest standards of scholarships. An expert in academic planning, his recruitment of distinguished faculty and administrators helped the College of Letters and Science attain a state of preeminence. By organizing the College into four divisions, he created a harmonious balance of disciplines. Dodd played a major role in the creation of North Campus, the Institute of Geophysics and several professional schools. To encourage academic excellence, he initiated the College honors and gifted students program.

As a standing tribute to the administrative and teaching contribution of Dodd, the UCLA Social Welfare Building was renamed Dodd Hall in 1974. His enthusiasm, insight and confident leadership continue to be an inspiration to the University. He is deeply love by the UCLA family.