Gail Baker named Dean at Nebraska-Omaha
Dr. Gail. F. Baker (Public Relations) has been named dean of the College of Communication, Fine Arts, and Media at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, effective July 1, UNO Chancellor Nancy Belck announced.
Baker joined UF as chair of the College’s Department of Public Relations in 1995. She was subsequently recruited by the President and Provost to serve, first, as UF director of communications, then as UF Vice President for Public Relations. Under President Machen, she also served as special assistant to the President.
Dr. Baker brings a unique combination of administrative and academic accomplishments to the position,” Belck said. “She has the skills and experience to develop this exciting new college.”
The UNO College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media (CCFAM) was formed July 1, 2005. The move united UNO’s existing School of Communication, radio station and television station with the UNO College of Fine Arts. Today, CCFAM consists of the UNO School of Communication; four academic departments – art and art history, music, theatre and Writer’s Workshop; KVNO Classical 90.7 FM; and UNO Television.
“The new college is a critical component of UNO’s metropolitan mission and commitment to students, academic excellence and community engagement,” said John Christensen, vice chancellor for academic and student affairs at UNO. “Dr. Baker’s previous administrative appointments and scholarly research are especially appropriate for UNO’s metropolitan mission and our commitment to diversity and inclusion for students, faculty, staff and the community.”
Dr. Baker received her Ph.D. in journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1991, her M.S. in marketing communications from Roosevelt University in 1980 and her BSJ in journalism from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University in 1976.
Dr. Baker is accredited in the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) where she is also a member of the College of Fellows. She has published on cross-cultural communications, ethnic public relations, reputation management, and advertising and marketing. Dr. Baker has also won awards for excellence in teaching and scholarship.
“I am extremely excited and honored to be joining UNO and the Omaha community. This college is uniquely positioned to advance the university’s metropolitan mission. I look forward to working with the outstanding individuals who comprise and support CCFAM,” Dr. Baker said.
Posted: June 19, 2006
Category: College News
