Oakland University appoints Stephen P. Weiter dean of University Libraries

ROCHESTER, Mich. - Aug. 3, 2015 - PRLog -- Oakland University has appointed Stephen P. Weiter as dean of University Libraries and associate professor, effective Monday, Sept. 21, 2015.

Mr. Weiter, currently director of college libraries at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), has also served as principal law librarian for automation and technical Services at the New York State Appellate Division Law Library in Rochester, New York. Prior to that, he was a network information services librarian for Finger Lakes Library System in Ithaca, New York. He has also taught as an adjunct instructor in the Syracuse University School of Information Studies since 1997.

At Oakland, the new dean will serve as chief academic and administrative officer of the libraries, while providing vision, leadership and planning for library staff. Mr. Weiter will also be charged with creating and maintaining collaborative relationships within the university and surrounding communities, fostering professional development of library personnel, supporting fundraising activities for the library, guiding advancement of library technology and academic offerings, and assuring the libraries’ central role in the intellectual life of the university.

“I am delighted to welcome Stephen Weiter to Oakland University as its new dean of University Libraries,” said Oakland University Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost James P. Lentini, D.M.A.

“He has the experience, skills and leadership qualities needed to help the libraries play a positive role in supporting teaching, scholarship and service. He is uniquely qualified to support the achievement of the university’s ambitious strategic plan.”

Mr. Weiter comes well prepared to meet new responsibilities at Oakland, having been appointed to a host of ESF and SUNY service roles, including ex officio member of the Friends of the Moon Library Board of Directors, ex officio member of the Library Committee, records management officer and member of the SUNY Council of Library Directors.

With dozens of publications, presentations and creative accomplishments to his credit, Mr. Weiter has worked with the NY 3Rs Working Group on Library as Publisher, won the Katie M. Devoe Spirit of ALLUNY Award and been inducted to the Beta Phi Mu library honor society.

“Stephen Weiter has presented a strong vision for the future of academic libraries, a clear understanding of the strengths and needs of our library, and genuine interest in joining Oakland University,” said Robert Maxfield, Ph.D, former dean of the School of Education and Human Services, and chair of the Dean of Libraries Search Committee.

Mr. Weiter holds a master of library science degree from the Syracuse University School of Information Studies, a master of arts in international relations from the Syracuse University Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Louisville. He also completed studies at Harvard University’s Leadership Institute for Academic Librarians.