EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Rhonda Fowler, who has served as interim University Librarian for the past academic year at Eastern Michigan University, has been named to the permanent position, the University announced today.

Fowler, who was selected after a national search, has held a variety of positions at Eastern Michigan’s Halle Library, including serving as an associate professor and reference librarian.

She had served another stint previously as interim University Librarian and also as interim associate University Librarian.

Fowler received her bachelor’s degree in English literature and communication from Tuskegee University in Alabama, a master’s in information and library studies from the University of Michigan, and a master’s in liberal studies, interdisciplinary technology, with a concentration in technology management, from Eastern Michigan.

“I’m gratified and excited that Rhonda Fowler has been appointed to this very important position at Eastern,” said Rhonda Longworth, provost and executive vice president of academic and student affairs. “Rhonda brings deep experience in both her field and within the University to the permanent role, and is the ideal person to powerfully guide us forward in making our excellent library and other resources most helpful and welcoming to our students, faculty and staff.”

The search committee was chaired by Doris Fields, director of undergraduate studies at Eastern. Other members included Kate Pittsley, associate professor, University Library; Alexis Braun Marks, assistant professor, University Library; Sara Memmott, assistant professor, University Library; Meryl Brodsky, assistant professor, University Library; Mike Barnes, assistant professor, University Library; Bill Shell, director, IT business operations; Colleen Croxall, department head, Health Sciences; Ann Blakeslee, director, campus and community writing; Brooke Boyst, library assistant; Candice Hunter, academic HR consultant; and Amy Ducher, administrative associate to the provost.

As interim University Librarian, Fowler replaced Susann deVries, who left Eastern Michigan to take a position at Western Kentucky University.  

Fowler’s start date is May 1. Her salary is $145,000.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest university in Michigan. It currently serves 20,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Health and Human Services; Technology, and its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.