This summer, the UW Graduate School is entering a new chapter—saying goodbye to two extraordinary associate deans and welcoming two new leaders who will help shape the future of graduate education.
A heartfelt goodbye to Drs. Joseph and Cargill
Dr. Ralina Joseph, Associate Dean for Equity and Justice, will depart the Graduate School on August 15, 2025, to become Vice Provost of Inclusive Excellence at the University of California, Los Angeles. During her five years at the Graduate School, Dr. Joseph created a powerful legacy, reshaping her office to promote equity in graduate education through structural change and deep community engagement. Among her many accomplishments are the launch of the annual Excellence in Graduate Education Summit, now celebrating its fifth year, and the creation of the Graduate Excellence Progress Tool, which has become a cornerstone of student success tracking.
Dr. Kima Cargill, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, concluded her tenure on June 15, 2025, and began a new chapter as Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Education at Seattle University. Over her seven years leading Academic Affairs—and with service to the Graduate School dating back to 2012—Dr. Cargill’s strategic leadership strengthened the infrastructure of graduate education across UW. Her work integrated the EP tool into academic program review, fostered tri-campus collaboration, and elevated the visibility and credibility of graduate education at UW.
A warm welcome to Drs. Kanuha and Willgerodt
Looking ahead, the Graduate School is thrilled to welcome two outstanding leaders:
Dr. Kalei Kanuha will assume the role of Associate Dean for the Office of Graduate Student Success in September 2025. This newly established office unites the former Offices of Graduate Student Affairs, Graduate Student Equity & Excellence (GSEE), and Equity & Justice to better serve students through a cohesive, equity-centered approach. Dr. Kanuha, a faculty member in the School of Social Work, brings a rich background in social work, community-based research, and academic leadership. She has previously served as assistant dean of diversity, equity and inclusion and associate dean for academic affairs in the School of Social Work, and is a longtime member of the Graduate School Council.
Dr. Mayumi Willgerodt will join the Graduate School as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs in September 2025. A nationally recognized leader in school health and nursing education, Dr. Willgerodt brings extensive experience in academic leadership, curriculum development, and mentorship. An endowed professor in the School of Nursing, she has also served as director of graduate studies at UW Bothell and has been an engaged partner in Graduate School activities, often supporting academic program reviews.
For more information about the Graduate School and our leadership, visit our about us page.