John Wright named interim dean
John W. Wright will become interim dean of the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications, effective July 1, Provost Janie Fouke announced today.
Wright has served as the College’s executive associate dean since 1999. Prior to that, he spent six years as associate dean for graduate studies. He joined the faculty in telecommunication in 1982.
“I’m honored to have the opportunity to become interim dean of the College, one of the elite journalism and communications programs in the nation,” Wright said. “The College has an outstanding record of accomplishment. I look forward to working with faculty and staff in building on our achievements for the future.”
Wright co-authored three books, including Perspectives on Radio and Television and Electronic Media and Government. His research also has been published in a number of refereed journals, including Communication Law and Policy, Communication Studies and Journalism Quarterly. He was the College’s research faculty member of the year in 1988.
Among other major recognitions of his accomplishments, Wright also has been honored for his excellence in teaching. He received a Teaching Incentive Award in 1996 and was recognized three times by the College as Teacher of the Year.
Provost Fouke said in announcing the appointment, “John Wright is the ideal person to fulfill this responsibility. He has demonstrated excellence across the varied missions of the University, earning the respect of faculty, staff, students and administrators throughout campus.”
Wright will succeed Terry Hynes, who has served as dean of the College since 1994. Hynes will take on a new assignment as assistant vice president for University Relations beginning July 1: developing and implementing strategies for telling the University of Florida story in major national and international media and media centers.
The College is a national leader in the professional education of future journalists and other communications practitioners. Nationally accredited, it has programs in advertising, print and broadcast journalism, public relations, and telecommunication production and operations, as well as graduate-level programs in science/health communication, documentary, media law, political communication, international communication, and other specialties.
Posted: March 7, 2006
Category: College News
