U of S Board announces new Dean of University Library
Posted November 30, 2005
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 30, 2005 2005-11-26-OTHER
U of S Board announces new Dean of University Library
The Board of Governors at the University of Saskatchewan approved the
appointment of Dr. Vicki Williamson as Dean, University Library for a
five-year renewable term, effective March 1, 2006.
This appointment was the result of an extensive, open search for candidates
both nationally and internationally and is the first appointment of its kind
in Canada. Dr. Michael Atkinson, Provost and Vice-President Academic and
Chair of the Search Committee, said: "Dr. Williamson has a breadth of
knowledge and experience that will be of great benefit to the University
Library, as well as the University of Saskatchewan as a whole. In keeping
with the University's drive for academic pre-eminence, we are delighted to
be leading the way in Canada in appointing a Dean of Library."
Williamson is currently the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administrative and Academic
Support) at the University of Ballarat in Australia, a position she has held
since 2001. As a member of the University's executive leadership team, she
has university-wide responsibilities that include student services, human
resources, and information services. Williamson is also a
Governor-in-Council appointee and Deputy President of the Library Board of
Victoria, the governing body of the State Library of Victoria.
Before joining the University of Ballarat, Dr. Williamson was the University
Librarian at Curtin University of Technology in Perth, Western Australia,
for nine years. During much of that time, she also served as the Foundation
Director of the John Curtin Prime Minister Library - Australia's first Prime
Ministerial library.
Dr. Williamson earned an EdD (Doctor of Education) from Curtin University of
Technology in 2000, an M.A. from the University of Canberra, and a Graduate
Diploma in Advanced Librarianship from the Canberra College of Advanced
Education.
She has published widely, and her current research interests include
innovation, change management, and strategic planning in education
environments; organizational culture of universities, and professional
development for library and information professionals.
Dr. Williamson will replace Frank Winter who served as the Library Director
for eleven years. After Mr. Winter's departure and while his successor was
being recruited, Ken Ladd served as Acting Dean of the University Library
for almost two years. On behalf of the University, Dr. Atkinson, expressed
his appreciation for Mr. Winter's long-term commitment to and solid
leadership of the University Library. He also extended gratitude for Mr.
Ladd's willingness to lead the University Library during this period of
transition.
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A photo of Dr. Williamson is available by contacting Tina Merrifield at
tina.merrifield@usask.ca
For further information, contact:
Dr. Michael Atkinson
Provost and Vice-President Academic
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-8489
