Dean Leach (kate.leach@yale.edu) holds a Ph.D. in Celtic Languages and Literatures from Harvard. Her academic interests include premodern healing practices in Wales, Ireland, Scotland, and England; medieval literature and culture; the intersection of magic, faith, and science in the Middle Ages; and folklore and mythology more generally. At Harvard, she taught in the Department of Celtic Languages and Literatures as well as for the program on Folklore & Mythology, offering courses such as Celtic Mythology, The History of Witchcraft and Charm Magic, and Magic and Faith in Medieval Medicine, which emphasized close engagement with medieval manuscripts and historical practices (healing charms, amulets, and prayers, in addition to medical recipes).
Before joining the Yale community, Dean Leach served as Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Students at Dartmouth College. In that role, she provided holistic academic advising to undergraduates, working closely with students, faculty, and campus partners to support students’ academic progress, wellbeing, and sense of belonging within the College.
As an undergraduate, Dean Leach explored several academic paths (Journalism, Spanish, and Russian!) before settling on Classical Studies. This experience has shaped her commitment to helping students discover and pursue intellectual trajectories that are right for them. She brings to Yale a deep enthusiasm for residential college life and for supporting students both inside and outside the classroom.
Dean Leach grew up in a small town in Kansas but has spent much of her adult life on the East Coast, and in Wales during her graduate studies. Her interests include reading, learning about other languages and cultures, and travel. Her favorite aspect of life in New England has been the unexpected, often quirky, town festivals and events, and she loves exploring and embracing new environments. Most recently, as Vermonters, Dean Leach and her family lived in a cabin in the woods, learning several new skills, including how to: tap maple trees and make syrup; operate a chainsaw; make apple cider; snowshoe; ice skate; forage in the forest; and even how to coexist peacefully with the many bears that roamed the land!
Dean Leach and her family (Jordan, baby Ellis, and cat Giles) are eager to explore New Haven and the surrounding areas and always welcome recommendations for fun and unique things to do. Jordan enjoys theater, reading, and exploring public libraries and museums. Ellis, who is three months old, currently enjoys napping, eating, and staring at lights and trees. Giles enjoys seeking out the sunniest windowsill for a good nap. Dean Leach and her family look forward to getting to know the Davenport community!
Want to meet with Dean Leach? Schedule a meeting on Calendly!