John Wright, who served as the interim dean of the UF College of Journalism and Communications for more than a year, was named the college?s permanent dean last month.
UF Provost Janie Fouke made the announcement Dec. 18 after a yearlong national search.
BI think Dr. Wright?s vision and energy excited the faculty, search committee and me,C Fouke said.
Wright, who has been the interim dean since July 2006, said he plans to build a digital communications center that will house two labs to connect students, professors and researchers.
While classes won?t be taught in the center, he said students will have access to stations outfitted with the latest technology to complete projects assigned in class.
BThe idea here is to become, if not a global leader, the global leader in digital communications,C he said.
Wright joined the UF telecommunication faculty in 1982 and later served as associate dean for graduate studies and executive associate dean.
BThis college has just a great history and a great tradition, and it?s truly an honor to have a chance to take over leadership,C Wright said.
