UTA Libraries' New Dean

After an extensive nationwide search, Zheng (John) Wang was named the UTA dean of libraries.  

Dean Wang replaces Rebecca Bichel, who left in April to become the University of North Dakota's dean of libraries and information resources. Bichel served UTA Libraries for more than 10 years as dean.  

Dr. Tamara Brown, UTA Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed her confidence in Dean Wang's leadership abilities.  

"He is a creative, energetic and highly motivated team-builder who excels at planning and managing change," Brown said. "Mr. Wang will provide data-driven decision-making and exceptional strategic planning for UTA Libraries." 

Brown thanked the hard work put in by the search committee chaired by Jewel Washington, vice president for talent, culture and inclusion. The committee's wide range of perspectives and diligence were critical throughout the selection process.  

She thanked Peter Zhang, who served as the interim dean during the search.  

"I also appreciate Peter Zhang for his committed service as interim dean of UTA Libraries since April 2023," Brown said. "His vision and leadership were vital to the success of the libraries during the search for the new dean." 

Dean Wang currently serves as the dean of Meriam Library at California State University, Chico. At Meriam Library, he has guided innovative service model discussions to increase the impacts of his librarians and the library overall.  

He supervised the launch of new programs and the creation of a new library identity and branding. Additionally, he created new fundraising opportunities for the library, securing a $1 million endowment, which was the most significant gift in the library's history. 

Before serving at the Meriam Library at California State University, Chico, Wang was an associate university librarian at the University of Notre Dame.  

At Notre Dame, Wang's work enabled digital, technological, and service transformations for the libraries that aligned with the university's educational and research missions.  

He led the relaunch of the libraries' grant management system, which implemented staff development and new processes to secure grant funding after a 25-year hiatus. 

He has also published on integrating emerging technologies with library services and project management within libraries.  

Peter Zhang, interim dean of libraries, shared his excitement for Wang's vision and leadership experience that he will bring to UTA. He added that serving the university as interim dean of libraries has been an honor.  

"John is well equipped for the dean's role. I cannot wait to work with him to take the libraries to ever-higher levels," Zhang said. "It has been a great learning experience for me as the interim dean—my deepest gratitude to Provost Brown for her confidence and support. I cannot thank everyone enough for the support and grace I received from the libraries' executive team, directors and staff. The interim experience deepens my commitment to the Libraries and UTA." 

Dean Wang’s official first day at UTA Libraries will be Oct. 1.