Ball State has named a new dean for the College of Sciences and Humanities.
Michael Maggiotto, currently the dean of the School of Letters and Sciences at the State University of New York at Brockport, was selected for the position because of his current job, Provost Beverly Pitts said.
Pitts said he was chosen because he is an experienced dean and because of his leadership skills.
Maggiotto was chosen after a search that started last September when a committee was formed to replace then-dean Ronald Johnstone. Johnstone retired June 30, 2002.
Maggiotto left Brockport because of the appeal of Ball State, he said.
"I thought it was a great opportunity... and I'm proud to be a part of the (Ball State) faculty," Maggiotto said.
Maggiotto, who was a political science professor, has been familiar with Ball State from his years at Bowling Green State University and the MAC conference, he said.
Maggiotto's current job is similar to his new position.
As dean of the School of Science and Letters at Brockport, 75 to 80 percent of the departments he currently oversees will be the same at Ball State, Maggiotto said.
"The search committee believed that Dr. Maggiotto had the vision and background at a similar, although smaller college, at Brockport to be a successful dean at Ball State," said Marilyn Weaver, chairwoman of the Department of Journalism and chairwoman of the selection committee.
When he assumes the position of dean June 1, Maggiotto will oversee the science, social science and humanity departments, which includes the core curriculum.
"Ball State is a larger institution," Maggiotto said. "I felt the experience I had gained (at Brockport) would be very applicable to a college like Ball State."
Weaver said Maggiotto's financial management skills also played a part in the committee's decision.
"He has a strong background in fiscal management and fund raising that could benefit the College of Sciences and Humanities in today's tightening economy," Weaver said.
Maggiotto visited the university for two days and spoke to faculty, the selection committee and students.
"The responses to him were very strong from members of the campus," Pitts said.
Maggiotto said he has yet to form any plans for his job.
"It's essential to listen before you lead," Maggiotto said. "Part of the whole spirit of collegiate atmosphere is to listen to your faculty, and to be able to tune in with the university."
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