New Leadership Roles in Journalism Department

Professors Jan Wicks and Patsy Watkins will take on new roles in the Walter J. Lemke Department of Journalism. Wicks will become first person to serve as vice chair of journalism department, and Watkins will become director of the department's graduate program. Each appointment is effective immediately.

Wicks will be a vital part of the leadership of the department and will maintain administrative duties that will support the chair and serve the entire program, Chair Larry Foley said in announcing the appointments.

"I'm honored to serve, as our department has grown so much and everyone's duties have increased exponentially," Wicks said. "I hope to make a meaningful contribution to the life and vitality of the department."

In addition to her duties as graduate program director, Watkins will take a leadership role in preparation for the department's 2015-16 accreditation review. The department is part of the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences.

"There is so much potential in this department for developing effective and innovative programs to serve students," Watkins said. "It's stimulating and challenging to be given the chance to focus on these projects."