UMass Amherst Libraries Announce New Interim Dean

On behalf of Provost John McCarthy, the University of Massachusetts Amherst Libraries is pleased to announce that Sarah Hutton, Head of Student Success and Engagement, has been appointed interim Dean of Libraries, effective August 22, 2021. To assist with the leadership transition process, the Provost has appointed Jennifer Friedman, Associate Dean for Research and Learning, to serve as acting dean from July 25 to August 21, 2021.

Sarah Hutton has held a number of positions at the UMass Amherst Libraries.  In her current role, Ms. Hutton oversees the Learning Commons, Digital Media Lab, the Libraries’ Assessment and Planning program, and numerous campus-wide partnerships in support of student success and outreach. She also serves as an adjunct in the College of Education. Ms. Hutton has been instrumental in positioning the Libraries as a key partner in UMass’ strategic goals of creating an exceptional student experience on campus.

Hutton and Friedman will serve in their respective roles following the departure of Dean Simon Neame, who will begin his post as Dean of Libraries at University of Washington on September 1, 2021.

The nationwide search for the permanent Dean of the Libraries will begin in September and a search advisory committee will be formed in the coming weeks. The executive recruitment firm Isaacson, Miller will provide professional support for the search process.