August 24, 2009

WSU library dean steps down; Pendse named interim dean

Pal Rao has announced his decision to step down as dean of University Libraries at Wichita State University. Rao, who is a tenured professor in University Libraries, will return to the faculty. In making his announcement, Rao expressed appreciation to library supporters and said, "It was a privilege and honor to work with the outstanding and dedicated faculty and staff of WSU Libraries during the past six years."

Gary L. Miller, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs and Research, said, "Dr. Rao has worked with great energy to ensure that the library serves students and faculty. We look forward to continuing our work with him to advance the mission of the library." Click on the link below for more information.

Miller announced that Ravi Pendse, associate provost and chief information officer, would assume additional duties as interim dean of University Libraries for the coming academic year.

"I have asked Dr. Pendse to work closely with the library faculty and staff and the university library committee to develop a detailed plan for the future of the library," said Miller. "As part of our work this year to reshape the university after recent budget cuts, we will explore how to configure the library to best support faculty research and student learning for the future. I am extremely confident that the library staff will work collaboratively with Dr. Pendse to accomplish this most important goal."

Rao joined the university as dean of University Libraries in 2003. He holds the Ph.D. degree in Educational Media from Southern Illinois University and master's degrees from the University of Illinois and Southern Illinois Universities. His undergraduate degree from Andhra University is in English literature. Prior to coming to WSU, Rao was dean of Library Services at Central Missouri State University.

For more information, contact Gary L. Miller at gary.miller@wichita.edu or Ravi Pendse at ravi.pendse@wichita.edu.