New York, N.Y. (August 5, 2025) – Guttman Community College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Karla Smith Fuller as dean of academic affairs, effective August 4. This recently created position, evolved from Fuller’s current role as interim dean of faculty and academic affairs, will support our chairs with the College’s recent shift to three academic departments.
A founding faculty member at Guttman, Dr. Fuller has played a pivotal role in the development of the College since its inception. She brings a wealth of experience in teaching, academic leadership and undergraduate research. Her collaborative leadership style, deep understanding of Guttman’s culture and ability to build trust across the institution make her uniquely suited for this role.
“Dr. Fuller has been an excellent partner over the past year as interim Dean,” said Dr. Paul Reifenheiser, officer-in-charge, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Karla brings to her new role a wonderful mix of intelligence, experience, and fun. I have enjoyed working with her greatly, and the College is in a better position because of her leadership. As we navigate the next steps of Guttman, I am thankful that we have someone in this Dean role who has their roots in the founding of the College. She will help us balance our past with possible changes as we collaboratively create our next chapter.” Dr. Fuller holds a B.S. in Biology from Texas Southern University and a Ph.D. in Cellular, Molecular, and Developmental Biology from Purdue University. She completed postdoctoral research at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. At Guttman, she has served as professor of biology, science program coordinator and chair of the science and mathematics department. Her research —focused on improving science education for underrepresented students — is supported by the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health and has earned numerous accolades.
“It brings me great joy to take on this new role at Guttman during this exciting time of transition,” Dr. Fuller said. “I look forward to working closely with our esteemed faculty and staff to support our students and the continued growth and success of The College.”
Stella and Charles Guttman Community College was CUNY’s first new community college in more than forty years. Reimagining what community college could be, Guttman opened its doors in Manhattan in August 2012 to create a research-based, innovative model focused on moving students efficiently toward graduation. Offering associate degree programs in a nurturing environment, the College provides holistic support and advising to ensure timely degree completion, and most graduates transfer to senior colleges. Guttman is federally designated as a Hispanic-serving institution and minority-serving institution with more than 90% of the student population identifying as Latine, Black/African American or Asian. Niche.com named Guttman the best community college in America in 2020 and the top community college in New York State in 2021.
