By Katherine Dunnagan
As Dr. Welkey makes her way towards retirement, UIW’s School of Media and Design has finally completed their search for a new Dean. On Friday, April 11th, the School of Media and Design announced that Dr. Watkins will advance into his new role as the Dean this summer!
Dr. Watkins maintains strong ties with the university as he first joined UIW in 2000 where he and four other students founded the Computer Graphic Arts department. Dr. Watkins told the Logos, “After being with UIW for 25 years as a professor, I’m humbled by the chance to serve as Dean. The School of Media & Design (SMD) is special within the university and within higher educations in its composition, students, and focus. I’ve had academic or professional experience in all of the disciplines contained in SMD, and I have a real love for these areas of study and the fantastic work being created by our departments.” Dr. Watkins has been serving alongside Dr. Welkey as the Assistant Dean, as well as teaching 3D animation and game design techniques for over 20 years. He further stated, “I’m excited to keep building on the work of Dr. Sharon Welkey who has been leading the school for more than 10 years, and while she leaves a legacy and big shoes to fill, I’m excited by the challenges ahead.” Students and faculty alike are excited to welcome Dr. Watkins into this new position.
Dr. Welkey can now breathe a sigh of relief as she commented, “I can retire with absolute peace of mind knowing the school is in good hands!” Dr. Welkey has served as the Dean for the School of Media and Design since 2010, and she has led with dedication, compassion, and confidence. Dr. Welkey has always encouraged students and faculty to become concerned and enlightened citizens of the world. Now as Dr. Watkins steps into this role, he states, “There are real issues in higher education in access and funding and I want to be in the room where these policies are being discussed and written. The needs of students are at the top of my list, and finding ways to serve them carefully, effectively, and in cost-effective ways within the new realities facing higher education is how I want to spend the rest of my career.”
We are proud and honored to welcome Dr. Watkins as the new Dean for the School of Media and Design. We know that he will continue to lead with strength, confidence, and empathy.
