Dean Cowan has been a larger than life force — inspiring all of us with his energy, intelligence and dedication to education. Perhaps most importantly — despite his many responsibilities, projects and initiatives — he never fails to make students feel that they are his first priority.
Amelia Arsenault, Ph.D. candidate
You have been an inspiration and role model for me ever since my first visit to USC as an inexperienced and callow high school senior. The moment I stepped into your office and talked with you, I knew I wanted to be offered the same opportunities you spoke of. Your intelligence, ideas, and kindness excite and inspire me and, though I’m a bit more “behind the scenes,” my Annenberg experience would not have been the same without you. CONGRATS and good luck in all your future endeavors.
Best,
Hayley Bloomingdale, Communication (’07)
You are fabulous. Thank you for everything you have brought to my second home, here at Annenberg. It won’t be the same without you!
Natalie Amber Greenberg, Communication (’08)
Entering Annenberg as a transfer student last fall, I could not have walked into an environment more supportive of and conducive to my success, now and in the future. The impact of your job well done immediately took effect in my life as a student and an aspiring journalist. Thank you, Dean Cowan, for leaving a mark on USC that I will always admire.
Matt Landes, Broadcast Journalism ('09)
Your leadership has helped transform Annenberg into one of the top Communication, Journalism and Public Relations Schools in the country. Annenberg and USC owe you many thanks
Julia Lindenthal, Communication/Broadcast Journalism ('08)
Even though this is my first year here at Annenberg, I already feel like a welcomed member of this community thanks to the openness and kindness you have demonstrated as Dean. Entering college, I never thought I would get taught by the Dean and even chat with him on a retreat, as I was able to at the Annenberg Scholars retreat this year. Thank you for helping to make Annenberg great!
Amanda Georges, Print Journalism ('10)
Dean Cowan is simply the most charismatic and engaging personality I’ve encountered at USC. Being the obnoxious kid in the front of his JOUR 190 class allowed me to witness his brilliance and relaxed nature up close, and meet industry giants at the same time. He always emphasized the students first and was constantly looking to innovate while educating. His presence has made my USC experience richer and fuller, and I will miss him greatly. Good luck in the next chapter!
Elex Michaelson, Broadcast Journalism/Political Science (’08)
Congratulations on your retirement! You've truly shaped Annenberg into the go-to school for journalism, and that has encouraged students from all backgrounds and diversities to enroll here. Best wishes for the future!
Megan Chao, M.A. Broadcast Journalism (’08)
You are officially the coolest Dean at USC and everyone knows it. You are extremely hands on and very personable. Thanks for always being there. Especially for Black Voices, we appreciate you. You make me proud to be an Annenberg Student. FIGHT ON!
Adena Andrews, Print Journalism (’07)
As a student in public diplomacy and staff member, I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from your compassionate and inspirational leadership. Over the past two years it has been a privilege to observe you in numerous situations. One thing stands out to me in all of these occasions is the grace you have in every circumstance and your ability to put those around you at ease. In addition, your work ethic and pace has given the Annenberg School a tempo to keep up with and has rapidly moved the school in positive directions. I am proud to be a part of this organization and know that my Annenberg degree will speak for itself in the years to come. Most of all, thank you for your commitment to students. As a student, I have learned so much from your dean lunches, student meetings, and informal gatherings. We will miss you as Dean, but feel fortunate that you will continue to teach and lead at the Annenberg School in your new position.
With gratitude,
Tori Horton, Master's Public Diplomacy
Thank you for all of your efforts to make the Annenberg School what it is today. I really appreciate the time you took to meet with me before I entered the Ph.D. program and your encouragement as I progressed with my studies. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
Cara Wallis, Ph.D. Communication (’08)
Under your leadership, Annenberg School feels like a warm big family. Being a family member, I enjoy every minute of the life here. Thank you so much for your contribution to the growth of our Annenberg.
Smiles,
Luyi Di, Master's Communication Management (’08)
It has been a great honor having you serve as our Dean. Though a novice in the Annenberg school, it has been a pleasure hearing you speak at various events these past few months. Best wishes for the future.
Caroon Gharakhanian, Master's Communication Management (’07)
Although I am sure I will thank you in person, I would like to thank you through this channel for your immense and tireless support for the Public Diplomacy program, the Annenberg School in general, and its students. Especially … Its students. I am fairly certain that you are one of the few leaders/heads of institutions that is so personable yet able to manage collectively far more than effectively at the same time. Interacting with you and seeing/experiencing you carry out your activities and interests as Dean has been truly inspiring. Being a student in the PD program as well as Treasurer in the Assoc. of PD Scholars (APDS) has heightened my conviction of this, having witnessed your dedication to the program and its students. Thank you. I truly look forward to keeping in touch with you throughout my career and hope to keep gaining from interacting with you. Thank you again, Dean Cowan!
With best wishes … warmest regards,
Sana A. Khan, Public Diplomacy ('08)
I just wanted to thank you for being so great. I was an Annenberg Scholar last year and I still remember all our special events and you coming to our retreat! I also took 190 my first semester and really enjoyed it. Thank you again and enjoy yourself on your well-deserved break!
Jessica Li, Public Relations (’09)
You were the first faculty member I met at USC. From my transfer orientation meeting to the MySpace seminar at the Galen Center, you've always been a true gentlemen to me and my peers. I can say on behalf of the entire Annenberg student body, you will be missed greatly. Thank you for being such a great guy to me, Dean Cowan. I truly thank you. You've made Annenberg the world-renowned prestigious institution that it is. Someone is going to have some huge shoes to fill!
All my best,
Adam Albrecht, Communication (’07)
On behalf of the Annenberg Student Communication Association, the Executive Board would like to thank you for your devotion to Annenberg throughout the years you have served as our dean. Your enthusiasm for communication and journalism is evident as a professor, as a leader, and as a friend. You have inspired hundreds of students to pursue various careers with professional grace and an innovative edge. Thank you for making our years at Annenberg a fruitful educational experience. We will certainly miss you!
Britta Nordahl, Communication (’08)
I first met Dean Cowan as a freshman in J-190. From the very first class, I knew this would be a man whom I could learn very much from, and this prediction has come true over the years. What I will always remembers was the Dean's unfailing conviction to save the integrity and honesty in journalism and make us all better reports. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors and know he will be missed.
Tricia Lanigan, Communication (’09)
From our time in J-190, to the joys of Cookies and Conversations, to your inspirational stories at the Annenberg Scholars Retreat -- We've only shared one semester, but I feel like I've known you my whole life. Your work as a leader is inspiring -- making all the big calls but finding the time to teach a freshman course. Thanks for leaving such an amazing legacy -- and always remember -- we will be inextricably linked by that L.A. Times photo!
Enjoy your next adventure,
Mat Mendez, Broadcast Journalism (’10)
It has been such a pleasure getting to know you over the past four years. You are one of my first memories of SC and you always made me feel so welcome here. I was always comforted knowing I had someone Susie so admired to look up to. Thank you for all your continued support and encouragement!
Sincerely,
Brianna Smyk, Communication (’07)
I met you through a happy coincidence, the summer before I came to USC; and I didn't realize, at first, that I was being introduced to the DEAN of my school--I thought you were a friendly professor. When, a short way into our conversation, I realized who it was extending such warmth and enthusiasm to such a lowly pre-freshman as myself, I could hardly believe it. You taught me how to truly represent Annenberg, before I even got here. Thank you for all the conversations (and cookies) we've shared. I will miss you very much.
Sami Kriegstein, Communication (’08); Master's Communication Management ('09)
Thank you so much for moderating the USC FC panel. Your participation means a lot to all of us and shows your commitment to USC and Los Angeles. It's a vision of an engaged university that prioritizes the marketplace of ideas and shows inspiring leadership.
Thanks,
Lewis Haidt, Master's Communication Management (’07)
As one of the students in the pioneering class of the Master’s in Public Diplomacy, I think I speak for everybody when I express my gratitude for your leadership and dedication which made this program a truly successful, leading-edge enterprise. Your creativity and support, and your responsiveness to the ideas and individual needs of each student were a great inspiration and opened the doors to a productive and collaborative work atmosphere. I hope you would always remain our patron and I wish you the best of luck in your next adventure.
Iskra Kirova, Master's Public Diplomacy (’08)
You helped create the first ever Master of Public Diplomacy program and as a member of the first class of that program I will be forever grateful. Thank you for your enthusiasm for the topic, your insight on the issues facing public diplomacy practitioners, and your efforts to make this program truly great! Your relaxed yet attentive, inquisitive, and encouraging nature has created an environment for ideas to thrive, for collaborations to happen and for people to feel they can do anything. It is this environment that makes Annenberg special and I am so glad I've had the opportunity to be a part of it. I believe this environment you've created will be sustained and when you step down you will leave a school filled with all that you have brought to it.
Meg Young, Master's Public Diplomacy (’08)
I remember meeting you when I attended Explore USC in February of 2006. You made me feel extremely welcome at Annenberg and played a large part in selling USC to me. Last semester I took Journalism 190 with you and truly enjoyed every class. Although I am very sad to see you leave, I want to congratulate you for your amazing accomplishments and wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors. Thank you very much for all that you have done for Annenberg and its students. I can't wait to see you back here in 2008!
Best,
Helen Moser, Print Journalism (’10)
Congrats on your new chair position! You were always so easy to talk with and encouraged the success of your students. The speakers and events you have brought to campus are the best in the country and have made my college experience a memorable one! Best of luck ... you will certainly be missed.
Ariel Wesler, Broadcast Journalism (’07)
I just wanted to say thank you for everything you have done for Annenberg and for me. When I came on a campus tour here, it was your friendliness that really made me fall in love with Annenberg. You taught me for JOUR 190, and I was always in awe at how passionate you are about what you do. You are a great person with immense leadership skills, and I congratulate you with all my heart. We'll miss you!
Kristina Lee, Communication (’10)
Nothing matters more than people
Not buildings or steeples
Dean Cowan is a great resource to everyone
He's smart, helpful and fun
We'll miss "Cookies and Cream," his student office hours
As he moves on to new ivory towers, we'll remember because we're teachable
Nothing matters more than people
Thank you Dean Cowan!
David Schlosberg, Master's Communication Management (’07)
Congratulations, Dean Cowan, on an impactful and memorable tenure at Annenberg. In my experience as an undergraduate and graduate student at Annenberg your leadership and vision have been matched by your affability. These qualities have made my time at Annenberg memorable, and I wish you all the best in the future.
Emily Schwartz, Public Relations (’05); M.A. Strategic Public Relations ('07)
I think it's fair to say that the Annenberg School would not be the success it is without your amazing leadership. We as the students thank you for your dedicated hard work and commitment to us all. I'm happy to hear you are staying near to USC, and best of luck as the new Annenberg Digital Future chairman. Your leadership as dean will be missed. Thanks for everything!
Josh Francis, Broadcast Journalism (’07)
Congratulations, Dean Cowan! Thanks for making my time at Annenberg so wonderfully rewarding. You will be missed! Best of luck to you in your future endeavors.
Seith Grugle, M.A. Public Relations (’07)
I will be forever grateful for your vision in creating the Public Diplomacy Masters Degree. You have lifted my life to an entirely new and challenging level, where all my skills and passions are channeled into making the world a better, more peaceful place. You are truly a first class mensch, and it has been a pleasure and a privilege to know you. I just hope to make you proud.
Be well,
Yael Swerdlow, Master's Public Diplomacy (’08)
I came to the USC Annenberg School with high expectations. However, after coming here I realized that the School was far beyond what I had imagined it to be. Credit goes to you, and the way you have shaped the School. The atmosphere and events held by Annenberg energize me and I relate the Annenberg School closest to my heart. It feels like home. Thank you for being so receptive to students and for making the Annenberg School a place that is far more than an academic institution.
Ahmed Omar, Communication (’10)
I've seen the positive effects of your enthusiasm and openness in every aspect of the school. One of my favorite memories is of our dinner discussion at the first Annenberg Scholars retreat, when we talked about expanding the abroad program to Australia. Three years later that suggestion came to life. You truly listen to your students, and we all appreciate your efforts to improve our experiences. Thank you!
Katie Riese, Broadcast/Online Journalism (’07)
Many thanks for all your hard work, and best of luck in your new endeavors.
Aram Sinnreich, Ph.D. Communication (’07)
I just want to thank you for everything you have done! You have impacted all of our lives more than you know and will always be remembered. As a part of the Annenberg family I know that everyone has appreciated all you have done for us!
Thank you and good luck,
Elyse Avila, Communication (’09)
I remember when I first decided to come to USC and came to the luncheon with my mom and aunt that the Annenberg School was giving for new students, one of the first people I met was Dean Cowan. He introduced himself to everyone and caught my eye as a great leader to admire right from the first day I stepped on campus and into the Annenberg School. I think you are a really great person to know and have done so much for Annenberg in the last four years that I have been a student at USC and a part of the Annenberg family. I hope as you continue to move on from this experience that you will only gain more knowledge and enjoy each and every experience you come across. I wish you all the success and happiness in the rest of your life and career. Congratulations on all your accomplishments!
Cheryl Wengren, Broadcast Journalism (’07)
Though our times together were brief, it was always nice to see your friendly smile and sparkly eyes around A-berg. Many have joked about "the two degrees of Geoff Cowan," and said, "If Dean Cowan doesn't know someone, they aren't worth knowing." I am happy to be included in the pool of people you know! Good luck and salud!
Amy Tenowich, M.A. Broadcast Journalism (’07)
I was so thankful for the time you spent with all us freshmen at the Annenberg Scholar retreat this year. Thank you so much for all you do to ensure that each freshman feels welcome and a part of something amazing. Blessings to you in whatever life has next for you!
Rachel Grice, Broadcast Journalism (’10)
Your legacy will be well-remembered by everyone who has come through Annenberg's gates, especially by us radio aficionados. Because of your leadership and commitment, journalism students can now add radio to the list of opportunities at the school. We waited with anticipation as we watched construction on the new radio studio, and we were thrilled to finally get our hands on the professional audio console and try our hand at perfecting our craft. Now we’re pros, putting on news shows and getting ready for our future careers in radio. And this is all thanks to you and your support of the radio program. Please accept our best wishes on your future projects. We hope you’ll stay tuned to our news show online at annenbergradio.org and we predict you will regularly be sitting at the guest microphone in the studio.
Sincerely,
The students of Annenberg Radio News
I remember I took your Journalism 190 class my first semester here at USC, and I realized just how dedicated you are to the school. Your passion for teaching and journalism was undeniable, and I loved the fact that you were always accessible and willing to talk to your students and listen to what they had to say. I just wanted to let you know how big of an impact you're leaving behind. Thank you so much, and I wish you all the best.
Monica Maeng, Communication (’09)
Dean Cowan's energy and commitment to academic scholarship has been inspirational to me. His interest in graduate student work reflects his commitment to encouraging our growth as scholars.
Nikki Usher, Ph.D. student
One of my favorite things about Annenberg is the close-knit, community atmosphere that makes me feel welcome in the larger university setting. I have no doubt that you, Dean Cowan, are responsible for that. Your ability to actively engage with students (undergrads, especially) and to show a genuine interest in what we have to say has made my last four years at Annenberg truly valuable. Best of luck in the future - I hope our paths cross again some day.
Thank you for a wonderful four years,
Kelsey Browne, Broadcast Journalism/International Relations ('07)
I met with you multiple times the year before I entered USC. The interactions my family had with you really played a large role in my decision to attend USC. Thank you for your dedication to the Annenberg School, for making it what it is today, and most of all, for you concern for every student. You will be sorely missed.
Andrew Samel, Broadcast Journalism ('09)
You are an inspiration to all aspiring journalists during a very telling and intriguing time in the media world. Thank you for your continued hope and encouragement for the future of journalism, which was especially visible in your JOUR190 class my first semester at USC. I have greatly enjoyed your lunchtime forums and cannot think of my time at Annenberg without thinking of the Dean that has brought Annenberg to where it is today. Your presence, charisma and dedication to Annenberg students will be greatly missed.
Immense thanks,
Monica Alba, Broadcast Journalism ('09)
Thank you for steering the Annenberg School and the Communication PhD program into such a stellar course. I appreciate all your efforts and am grateful to have caught your last year as Dean. Best of luck with all your next endeavors.
Best,
Maura Klosterman, PhD ('11)
Thank you for giving us Annenberg TV News, the student news operation where we learn everything we need to become successful broadcast journalists. Our state-of-the-art newsroom and beautiful new set would not have been possible without your generosity these past nine years. Your faith in ATVN has inspired hundred of students to make journalism a meaningful career. Thanks for always believing in us! The Students of Annenberg TV News ------------ If you have any questions, feel free to contact me about this message.
Nicole Gonzales, Annenberg TV News Executive Producer, Broadcast Journalism ('07)
I took Journalism 190 in the spring of 2005, and to this day it is my favorite class at USC. Dean Cowan really fostered my love of and passion for journalism, and, because of that, he will always be a huge influence on my life. Without his inspiration, I might not be pursuing journalism right now.
Laura Davis, Print Journalism ('08)
Thank you for steering the Annenberg School and the Communication PhD program into such a stellar course. I appreciate all your efforts and am grateful to have caught your last year as Dean. Best of luck with all your next endeavors.
Best,
Maura Klosterman, PhD ('11)
Geoff Cowan has managed to be ahead of so many curves in our line of work that it is impossible to do justice to them all. His ferocious energy, disciplined intellect, wide-ranging curiosity and repeated willingness to try new things as they emerge are packaged in a personality that inspires others to give their best as well. Each stop on his way has been a success; each has left the institution he served much better than he found it.
Hodding Carter III, University Professor of Leadership and Public Policy, University of North Carolina; former president and CEO of the Knight Foundation and former Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs
Watch Dina Powell's message
Dina Powell, Assistant Secretary, Educational and Cultural Affairs
Watch Karen Hughes' message
Karen Hughes, Under Secretary, Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs
Dean Cowan's consistent articulation and delivery of academic excellence not only improved our institution during his tenure but also set important benchmarks for the future. Indeed, his legacy will no doubt only grow as time goes on.
Suzanne Nora Johnson, Senior Director, Goldman, Sachs & Co.; USC Trustee
Dean Cowan has helped carry forward the communication revolution in remarkable ways. In the process he has moved the Annenberg School to the top in its field.
C.L. Max Nikias, USC Provost
Geoff Cowan's boundless energy, his inclusiveness, his belief in the power of communication and in the ways this school can harness it, have earned him the gratitude and admiration of the Annenberg family and the entire USC community."
Wallis Annenberg, Vice president, The Annenberg Foundation; USC Trustee
Geoff Cowan made an immensely important difference at USC. Those of us who have watched his energy and dedication to enhancing the Annenberg School know he has created a world-class institution and, most importantly, touched the lives of students in profound ways.
Henry Cisneros, Executive chairman, CityView; Former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
Geoff Cowan is a world-class human being. I admire his wide-open intellectual curiosity about everything, and the way he's always thinking outside the box and across time.
Gary Kusin, Partner, Texas Pacific Group; former CEO of FedEx Kinko's
It can be exhausting to be around Geoff Cowan. There is that apparently bottomless spring of energy, that constantly churning intellect and that nonstop shower of ideas that he throws off like sparks flying off a sharpening wheel. It comes as no surprise to those who know him that he has put his powerful stamp on the Annenberg School, and I have no doubt that the next chapter will be just as glorious.
Alex S. Jones, Director, Joan Shorenstein Center on the Press, Politics & Public Policy; John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University
The opportunity you gave me back in 1999 to coordinate the Online Journalism Conference launched my career in Event Planning. It came at a time when I was a bit lost — having returned from my adventure on the "Titanic" and I needed to find some dry ground. You welcome me into the Annenberg Family and I will always be grateful for the warmth and support you have shown me and my family over the years.
Thank you and best of luck on your next adventure,
Diane Guthman, former staff member
You took over as Dean in the middle of my MA course, and brought an exceptional dynamism to Annenberg that was thrilling to be part of. I have a photo of you shaking my hand at graduation that I will always treasure. I hope you will enjoy your new position, and that you will still be able to influence the direction of the Communications School.
All good wishes for your future,
Jeane Freer, Master's Communication Management ('99); Professor, Paris School of Business
You once welcomed me to the 'Center of the Universe' at Annenberg. Thanks for bringing the Universe within reach.
Aaron Nicholson, Communication ('03)
Like a good reporter, Geoff knows who to call on just about anything, and if he doesn't know, he knows how to find out. Like a great editor, Geoff has shaped and improved the programs and faculty of the Annenberg School, so that the effect of his time at USC will live on for many years.
Janet Clayton, Journalism ('77); assistant managing editor, Los Angeles Times; member, USC Annenberg Board of Councilors
Thank you very much for some of the most interesting times during my studies at USC. I truly appreciate your drive to challenge students intellectually by engaging them and being friendly and open. You are a shining example what any teacher or educator should strive for. I do not believe that I would have enjoyed my time at USC as much without you and I still miss your Dean’s Open Forum lunches. I wish you all the best and hope that we will stay in touch.
Kind regards,
Ivar Combrinck, Cinema-Television Production (’05)
I have watched Annenberg (and USC as a whole) do exactly what the alumni hope it will do — get better and better each year. Dean Cowan has created a dynamic environment for students and has attracted wonderful professors to the School.
Seth Doane, Broadcast journalism ('00); correspondent, CNN International, New Delhi
Congratulations on a fantastic 11 years at Annenberg! It's hard to forget the day I came into your office as a freshman to discuss the fact that our lab fees were increasing despite such poor broadcast facilities. At the time you offered a vision for where the broadcast program was headed. However, I'm not sure even you could have imagined how far the program would come. Thank you for sharing your leadership with the thousands of us who have passed through Annenberg during your remarkable tenure.
Ari Meltzer, Broadcast Journalism ('01)
You took over as Dean in the middle of my MA course, and brought an exceptional dynamism to Annenberg that was thrilling to be part of. I have a photo of you shaking my hand at graduation that I will always treasure. I hope you will enjoy your new position, and that you will still be able to influence the direction of the Communications School. All good wishes for your future Jeane Freer Professor, Paris School of Business Paris, France
Jeane Freer, Master's Communication Management ('99)
We began our careers at USC Annenberg together in 1996, so it seems fitting that I send you a brief note to congratulate you on your accomplishments and to express my gratitude for all that you have done for both me and the School. I, and many others, have benefited from your leadership, mentorship, and friendship. I wish you all the best in your next endeavor.
Sincerely,
Daniel Prince, Communication (’00); M.A. Broadcast Journalism ('02)
My two years as a graduate student at USC Annenberg were so exceptional, in large part because of the amazing opportunities you helped bring to students. A Dean's scholarship allowed me to attend Annenberg in the first place. My passion for radio reporting grew during my Voice of America fellowship in London. And the amazing staff you cultivated — including the addition of Judy Muller during my first year — will be life-long mentors. Thank you for your impact, small and wide. Congratulations and good luck!
Sincerely,
Melissa Milios, M.A. Journalism (’04)
Your accessibility to students is what I'll always remember about you. During my undergrad years, I recall chatting away in your office the first time we met. You've been a great communicator and listener, especially with students -- always having an open door policy. Thank you for making my Annenberg experience even more real and rewarding, with the thoughtfulness and time you've invested in us. Congratulations on your retirement -- well deserved!
Best,
Jessica del Mundo, Broadcast Journalism/Political Science ('97)
As a Dean, you had been serving the whole Annenberg community well, and as a friend and teacher, all of the students like you so much. What can we ask for more? As a foreign student, I just want to say that Dean Cowan has been one of the most charismatic scholars I met in my life.
Hai Wang, Master's Communication Management (’06)
You have always been a role model and shining example of integrity that I have long admired. Thank you for giving me 6 outstanding years at the Annenberg School.
All the best to you,
Beeta Benjy, Communication (’02); Master's Communication Management ('04)
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