Dear College of Journalism and Mass Communications students,
As you recently learned, I have accepted the resignation of Dean Marron effective Friday, January 19. Maria is a thoughtful leader who has worked hard to advance the College. Her accomplishments as dean include increased enrollment, improved retention and graduation rates; instructional and research space enhancements; new programs such as the “Press and the Presidency in the Post-Truth Era” conference and sports media and communication undergraduate major; and successful reaccreditation from the Accrediting Council for Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. Maria will focus on her scholarship and return to the faculty at the beginning of the 2018-2019 academic year. I thank Maria for her committed service as dean for the last 3 ½ years.
Professor Amy Struthers will be Interim Dean effective January 20. Dr. Struthers serves as the college’s graduate chair and joined the College of Journalism and Mass Communications in January 2003 after 15 years as a marketing professional. She teaches promotional strategy, copywriting and integrated marketing communication campaigns. She is the faculty founder of Jacht student advertising agency and received the College Award for Distinguished Teaching in 2011. I am pleased she has agreed to take on this role during this transitionary period.
Keep up the good work and have a great semester. I look forward to learning about your many accomplishments.
Best,
Donde Ashmos Plowman
Executive Vice Chancellor & Chief Academic Officer
University of Nebraska-Lincoln