College of Journalism and Communications Announces Administrative Re-assignments

Dr. Terry Hines, Dean

Dr. Terry Hynes, dean of the College of Journalism and Communications, has announced the following administrative re-assignments, effective July 1, 1999:

• Dr. James L. Terhune has accepted an appointment as chair of the Department of Public Relations.
• Dr. John W. Wright has accepted an appointment as the college’s senior associate dean for academic and administrative affairs.
• Dr. Marilyn Roberts has accepted a one-year appointment as acting associate dean for graduate studies.

During the 1999-00 academic year, the college will conduct a national search for a new associate dean for graduate studies.

“I look forward to the challenge of leading the Public Relations program—ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the two best in the country. I see no reason why we can’t be recognized as the very best,” Terhune said.

Terhune has served as the college’s associate dean and senior associate dean for 17 years. He will replace Dr. Gail F. Baker, chair of the Department of Public Relations since 1995. Earlier this year Baker accepted a position as the University of Florida’s director of communications.

“Jim has done an exceptional job in all of his responsibilities,” Hynes said. “He is the person we could count on to accomplish any task, from coordinating complicated class schedules and accrediting self studies to responding to students’ needs and concerns.

“I personally am especially grateful to Jim for his thoughtful advice and wisdom during the past five years.”

Terhune will continue as editor of the college’s alumni newsletter, communigator, in his new position.

A professor in UF’s Department of Telecommunication since 1982, Wright brings to the position of senior associate dean six years of administrative experience as the college’s associate dean for graduate studies.

“John will bring to his new position the same high level of intelligence and insight that Jim has,” Hynes said. “Like Jim, he has the confidence of the faculty and he understands the directions and priorities of the University.”

Roberts, an associate professor in the Department of Advertising, has been a faculty member at UF since 1994. She is a member of both the graduate and doctoral faculties in the College.

A scholar in international advertising and political communication, Roberts has been actively involved with graduate students at UF and previously as a faculty member at The Ohio State University.

“Marilyn understands the crucial role of graduate studies, given the University’s and the college’s priorities for graduate growth,” Hynes said. “She brings to the acting position high standards for intellectual work and strong administrative skills. She will sustain the momentum and high quality of our graduate programs during the transition to a new associate dean.”