Pat Hawthorne has been named the dean of the University Library, effective Aug. 3. In her role, Hawthorne will serve as a member of the Provost’s Council and will report directly to Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Sylvia Alva.
As dean , Hawthorne will provide academic leadership, strategic direction, and administrative oversight of the University Library. She will play a key role in enhancing the library’s services and programs and expand its digital presence and accessible instructional materials and resources. As the role of the library expands and the economic pressures to keep up with the rapid pace of new technology and escalating costs of library materials and subscriptions intensify, the dean of the University Library will be expected to increase philanthropic support and stakeholder engagement, as well as help forge strategic partnerships externally and internally in support of the library’s strategic direction and initiatives.
Hawthorne, an academic librarian for 32 years, brings a wealth of experience and professional accomplishments in these areas. She also comes with a demonstrated commitment to positioning the library to support and improve student learning and success outcomes; shaping and implementing a vision of education and scholarly innovation and excellence; and securing campus and external resources to ensure the continued growth and success of the library.
Her previous position as associate dean for research and education was at the University Libraries for the University of Nevada Las Vegas where see oversaw five public service departments and three branch libraries with 42 faculty and staff. She has also worked at seven public and private institutions in administrative and public service positions.