The fall 2026 term brings new leadership to the CSUSB History Department, with Dr. Marc A. Robinson, Associate Professor, stepping in as interim chair. Professor Robinson joined the History Department in 2018, after serving as visiting assistant professor at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. Dr. Robinson completed his PhD in American Studies at Washington State University, in Pullman, and his Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Washington.

After joining the History Department in 2018, Professor Robinson quickly became a favorite of students, teaching a range of courses on US History across different eras, and focusing both his teaching and research on African American history, with an emphasis on the Pacific Northwest and college campuses in the twentieth century. After publishing his dissertation-based monograph, Washington State Rising: Black Power on Campus in the Pacific Northwest (2023) with New York University Press, Robinson was a sought-after commentator on matters of campus politics and the history of struggles for racial justice. He has delivered a number of keynote addresses, including at his alma mater, as well as being featured on prominent outlets like syndicated NPR programs and NBC affiliates, to share his scholarship and connect it to current events. Dr. Robinson has been recognized with a growing collection of awards, including as outstanding junior faculty on our campus, and nationally as a Mellon Emerging Faculty Leader.

“I am honored to serve as interim chair of History,” noted Dr. Robinson about his new appointment. “Our work as historians is as important and meaningful as ever. The study of history and the critical insights such studies can provide are essential in our society today, as we face a multitude of challenges in our country, and in our world. I am sure the faculty and students will continue to do great work, and I look forward to supporting them as department chair.”

This academic year has seen a number of transitions across campus, notably with the arrival of a new CSUSB President, Dr. Terry Gomez, and our department also reflects the ongoing campus transitions. The great thanks of the History Department go to Dr. Brian Janiskee of the Political Science Department for bringing his expert, conscientious, and energetic approach to History’s interim chair over the past two years. 

The History Department welcomes Dr. Robinson as interim chair and we thank him for his leadership!