Spectrum - Volume 20 Issue 13 November 20, 1997 - Knox named dean of College of Architecture, Urban Studies

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Knox named dean of College of Architecture, Urban Studies

By Julie Kane

Spectrum Volume 20 Issue 13 - November 20, 1997

Senior Vice President and Provost Peggy Meszaros has named University Distinguished Professor Paul L. Knox to serve as dean of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies. Knox, an internationally renowned geographer, was appointed interim dean effective July 1, 1997. A professor in the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, Knox was associate dean of academic affairs for the college since August 1993.
"Dr. Knox brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the college to this new role. I have great confidence in his ability to lead the college into the 21st century," said Meszaros.
The provost went on to say in her announcement letter that Knox's appointment was unanimously recommended by the search committee and the college advisory council.
A scholar in the interdisciplinary field of urbanization, Knox has written 12 books and authored over 100 academic publications. His most recent text has been adopted by over 80 North American universities. In addition he serves on the editorial boards of the top ten international journals in his field.
On becoming dean, Knox said, "I am very proud to have been given the opportunity to lead the college. He continued, "I envisage the College of Architecture and Urban Studies becoming powerfully influential in professional education, a catalyst for progressive change. The challenge is to show how and why the design and policy professions matter to contemporary society. Places are becoming increasingly interdependent as a result of economic integration and technological change. The college's particular role within the `land-grant university of the 21st century' will be to address these interdependencies in ways that speak to civil society, social responsibility, and land environmental sensitivity."
Knox has both his bachelor's and his Ph.D. in geography from the University of Sheffield, England. He has taught at universities in Finland, New Zealand, Scotland, Hungary, and Norway, as well as at the University of Wisconsin and the University of Oklahoma.
Regarding Knox's appointment, Vice President of Development and University Relations Charles Steger said, "I am confident that Paul Knox has the vision and leadership skills to lead the college to the next level of achievement." Steger chaired the search committee and is a former dean of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies.