Meet the Dean

As the new Dean of UTA Libraries, John Wang looks to build upon the libraries' strong foundation to create a greater resource for the community. He joined the library three weeks ago after serving as the dean of Meriam Library at California State University, Chico. 

During his earlier visit to campus as a job candidate, Wang was impressed with what UTA Libraries offers to the patrons. 

"We are very atypical as a library with the services that we have to offer. I really like our values that we care, and we are customer-focused in what we offer," Wang said. "The library is aligned with my personal values in terms of the user focus, serving a more representative population, and giving people the chance to move up the social ladder. I found a lot of meaning to that. It resonated with me." 

Wang stated that one of the first steps he has taken is to get to know the staff by finding out their role at the library, listing their concerns and their daily challenges. Through this step, Wang hopes to build strong relationships and community within the library's walls. 

"As dean, my priority is the well-being of our people and our services," Wang said. "Meaning that I need to do a good job of making sure that the resources and the tools are in place for our team members." 

Wang said he is working to create the right culture and system for the library that enables and empowers everyone.  

One of Wang's long-term goals to take UTA Libraries to the next level is to become a transformative model for a research library. This dual mission would still provide services for undergraduate students while supporting research and scholarship. 

Wang shared that it would take a lot of planning to see what is required and how it can be accomplished to reach this goal. 

"I understand how much work is on everyone's plate. We have to think about what is necessary to support everyone to be successful," he said. "We can't ask people to do more without the proper planning and thinking about what is important to us. We also need to think about resources that need to be in place in order to enable this transformation." 

Wang stated it is essential to remember the destination to have a clear picture of the future when setting a goal personally, professionally, or for a large organization. 

He feels that there is a strong team here at UTA Libraries that will not only meet these challenges but surpass them while maintaining a high level of excellence. 

Outside of the library, Dean Wang enjoys spending time as an angler and looks forward to a new fishing spot near where his home is being built in Midlothian. 

He finds his time at a lake fishing as great way to recharge and center himself. 

"Fishing helps me get my mind off other aspects of life. The environment is very tranquil," he said. "Yesterday at the lunch and learn, we talked about self-care, which is how I do self-care." 

 Dean Wang wants to let people know that his door is always open for people to chat, voice concerns or ask questions. 

We at UTA Libraries want to extend our warmest welcome and look forward to working side by side in serving the community. Welcome to UTA.