Published: Sept. 16, 2015
Cindy White

Founding Dean Lori Bergen of the College of Media, Communication and Information (CMCI) Wednesday announced the appointment of Associate Professor Cindy White as associate dean for undergraduate curriculum and programs.

CMCI is the first new college on the CU-Boulder campus in 53 years. With a highly interdisciplinary approach, it establishes new standards for teaching, creative work and scholarship, and empowers students to thrive in the rapidly changing media landscape.

“Cindy White’s appointment rounds out a dynamic leadership team at CMCI,’’ Bergen said. “I look forward to working with her and all of our colleagues as the college continues to grow.”

White said she is “thrilled” by the new position. “The founding of CMCI represents a special opportunity to develop innovative programs that will prepare students to respond to the challenges and opportunities of the changing communication environment,” she said.

White’s research explores how patterns of interaction form the foundation for personal relationships. She is co-editor ofTogether Alone: Personal Relationships in Public Places.Her current research considers young adults’ communication with parents about money and purchasing, and how people learn about communication via family socialization and programs designed to shape communication practices.

“Cindy is committed to improving our students’ experiences and the quality of their education,” said Professor Karen Tracy, who chairs the Department of Communication. “She has an outstanding record of leadership in the Department of Communication and across the university. I know she will bring these same skills and qualities to her new role at CMCI.”

In addition to White, Senior Journalism Instructor Stephen Jones serves as CMCI’s assistant dean for student success and Professor of Media Studies Janice Peck is associate dean for graduate studies and research.

Heading CMCI’s seven departments and programs are:

Harsha Gangadharbatla, founding chair and associate professor, Department of Advertising, Public Relations and Media Design

Karen Tracy, chair and professor, Department of Communication

Daniel Boord, founding chair and professor, Department of Critical Media Practices

Leysia Palen, founding chair and professor, Department of Information Science

Mark Amerika, founding chair and professor, the program in Intermedia Art, Writing and Performance

Paul Voakes, founding chair and professor, Department of Journalism

Nabil Echchaibi, founding chair and associate professor, Department of Media Studies