WKU News

WKU Provost David Lee has announced the appointment of Susann deVries as Dean of University Libraries.   

Currently the Interim University Librarian at Eastern Michigan University, deVries has extensive experience in library services designed to enhance and support teaching, scholarship and community engagement. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Calvin College, a master’s degree in Library and Information Science from Wayne State University, and a master’s degree in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University. During her 13 years at Eastern Michigan, deVries has served in a variety of roles including Education Librarian and Department Head prior to becoming Interim University Librarian in 2015. 

“This is an important time for University Libraries at WKU,” Dr. Lee said, “and Susann is extremely well-prepared to assume this significant role on our campus.” 

President Gary A. Ransdell added: “Susann has built an outstanding record at Eastern Michigan, and I’m delighted that she’ll be joining us at WKU.” 

deVries was chosen through a national search process chaired by Potter College Dean Larry Snyder. 

 “It is such an honor and privilege to have been appointed as Dean of University Libraries,” deVries said. “I am thrilled to be joining WKU at this exciting time and look forward to partnering with the excellent library faculty, staff and students to continue developing outstanding library services, collections, and facilities for the WKU community.”

deVries will start July 1. She is succeeding Dean Connie Foster who is retiring after 41 years of service to WKU and University Libraries.

Contact: David Lee, (270) 745-2297