Saeri Dobson

Saeri Cho Dobson, Ed.D, currently chairs the Studio Arts Department. In this role, Dobson passionately advocates for the diverse interests of department members, including students, faculty, and staff, leveraging her extensive 13-year trajectory in progressive leadership roles. Notably, she has fulfilled roles such as Area Head and department chairperson, effectively showcasing strategic design acumen and visionary guidance within the academic sphere.

Dobson's academic path encompasses a BFA in Communication Design from Parsons School of Design, New York, and an MFA from Art Center College of Design, Pasadena, imparting depth to her creative journey. Complementing her creative foundation, she attained an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the Charter College of Education, California State University, Los Angeles, underscoring her steadfast dedication to knowledge advancement.

A pivotal juncture in Dobson's journey was marked by the prestigious City of Los Angeles Artist-in-Residence grant from the Department of Cultural Affairs. This transformative experience ignited her exploration into art-making with adults grappling with intellectual disabilities, fostering an intrigue at the nexus of creativity and accessibility.

Dobson's recent dissertation delves into teaching strategies within studio-based higher education environments for students with disabilities. Centered on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), culturally responsive pedagogy, and equity in education, her research underscores a resolute commitment to catalyzing positive transformations within educational contexts.

In parallel with her academic contributions, Saeri is an accomplished graphic designer with a prominent national and international presence, exhibiting work across diverse countries, including Italy, Germany, Mexico, New Zealand, South Korea, and Switzerland.

Beyond her professional engagements, Dobson serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Al Wooten Jr. Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing educational and enrichment opportunities for underserved youth in South Los Angeles. Through this role, she actively participates in fundraising initiatives to bolster scholarships, after-school programs, and mentorship opportunities for marginalized students. This engagement offers her a direct perspective into the transformative impact of education on young lives.