Extending Our Gratitude to Jay Devine

Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026

Dear Dietrich College Faculty, Staff and Students,

As the new academic year commences, I want to extend Dietrich College’s deep gratitude to Dr. Joseph (Jay) Devine, a long-serving member of college leadership who retired as associate dean for undergraduate studies at the beginning of September.

After earning his Ph.D. in history from Carnegie Mellon University, Jay joined the Dean's Office staff in the then-College of Humanities and Social Sciences in 1979 as director of the Academic Advisory Center. His responsibilities expanded significantly over the years, and he became assistant dean in 1986 and associate dean for undergraduate studies in 2008. Jay led the effort to establish a Phi Beta Kappa chapter at CMU in 1995, took on the role of university Pre-Law advisor in 2001, and also served as director of Dietrich College’s Senior Honors Program and Student-Defined Major Program. Across these many roles, Jay’s commitment to mentoring and advocating for our students remained unwavering.

Jay’s contributions have been recognized with numerous honors at CMU, including the 1995 Award for Outstanding Contributions to Academic Advising and Mentoring and a 2018 Alumni Award for professional achievements and service to the university. Most recently, the City of Pittsburgh designated Nov. 3, 2025, “Dr. Joseph E. Devine Day” in recognition of his impact.

Over his distinguished 47-year career with Dietrich College, Jay’s devotion to the college and university and his enthusiastic support for our students touched many lives. We thank Jay for his incredible service and wish him the very best as he embarks on his next chapter.

Best

Cassidy R. Sugimoto 
Bess Family Dean