John Pollard

Dr. John Pollard is an award‑winning educator, academic leader, and innovator in teaching and learning. He serves as the Franke Dean of the W.A. Franke Honors College at the University of Arizona, where he leads interdisciplinary, student‑centered programs designed to prepare students for complex real‑world challenges. 

With a BS in Chemistry from St. John’s University, a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Arizona, and more than two decades of experience as a professor and leader in higher education, Dr. Pollard is widely recognized for advancing evidence‑based and active‑learning practices. His work focuses on rethinking traditional classroom models, designing collaborative learning environments, and helping students develop the mindset needed for creativity, problem‑solving, and lifelong learning. 

As Franke Dean, Dr. Pollard has guided significant curricular innovation within the Franke Honors College, including the development and implementation of transdisciplinary and experiential learning pathways that connect students across primary majors. Under his leadership, the college has earned national recognition for its growth, innovation, and student impact. 

Teaching, Scholarship, and Innovation 

In addition to his disciplinary expertise in chemistry and biochemistry, Dr. Pollard’s scholarly and professional interests center on how students learn most effectively in collaborative and interdisciplinary environments. He is a co‑author of the nationally recognized Chemical Thinking curriculum, which emphasizes conceptual understanding and scientific reasoning over rote memorization and has been adopted by institutions across the country. 

His research and professional focus areas include: 

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Pollard has created accessible educational content through YouTube and TED‑Ed. 

Leadership and Impact 

Before becoming Franke Dean, Dr. Pollard served in multiple academic leadership roles, including Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the Franke Honors College. Across these roles, he has worked closely with faculty to redesign courses, learning spaces, and programs that foster student engagement, curiosity, and collaboration. 

His leadership philosophy emphasizes empathy, shared purpose, and evidence‑based decision‑making. He is particularly interested in how institutions can adapt to a rapidly changing educational landscape while remaining deeply student‑focused. 

Media, Speaking, and Public Engagement 

As host of “It’s an Honor: A Podcast from the W.A. Franke Honors College,” Dr. Pollard engages in discussions with top business professionals, philanthropists, academics, and institutional leaders about the future of higher education, honors education, and teaching innovation.  

His work and perspectives are well suited to conversations with educators, academic leaders, and general audiences interested in learning, creativity, and institutional change. 

Areas of expertise include: