FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Jeff Shannon will serve as the University of Arkansas’ interim dean of the School of Architecture, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Robert Smith announced today.

Shannon will assume the position on August 1, 2000 through June 30, 2002 when a permanent dean is anticipated to be named. His annual salary will be $98,135.

Shannon is currently a professor in the UA School of Architecture where he specializes in history of urban form, design thinking and third-year design. He joined the U of A in 1979, and has served as the interim chair of the department of architecture this past year.

"Professor Shannon’s past contributions to Architecture and the University reflect the abilities and energy I know he will bring to this new challenge," Smith said. "His leadership comes at an important time, as the institution sets out to "make the case" for increased support from state leadership over the next decade and as we prepare for a major capital campaign."

In addition to providing oversight and direction for the School of Architecture and participating in such university initiatives, Shannon will lead the architecture faculty, during the fall, in producing a vision statement. This statement is intended to set forth a vision for the school that will assist in future development of programs in the school by identifying in broad terms major initiatives needed to develop the school to its greatest potential in terms of accomplishments and enrollment.

"I am confident that Professor Shannon has both the experience and leadership skills to carry our School of Architecture through this time of transition," said Chancellor John A. White. "The depth and breadth of his experience provides him with great insight that will be invaluable in creating a vision statement to launch the school into the 21^st Century."

Shannon received his bachelor of architecture from the University of Arkansas in 1970 graduating Cum Laude, and he received his master of architecture/urban design from Rice University is 1973.

Among his awards received since coming to the University are: department of architecture Outstanding Teacher Award, 1997; UA Teaching Academy Award for Outstanding Teaching, 1993; Induction into the UA Teaching Academy, 1993; School of Architecture Master Teaching Award, 1993; UA Teaching Academy Award for Outstanding Teaching in the category of creativity, 1992; UA Pella Faculty Writing Award, 1987; UA Shell Award for Scholarship and Research, 1983; Danforth Foundation Associate, 1981 -1986; Faculty Achievement Award/ Tau Sigma Delta, 1981; and Citation for Teaching, Omicron Delta Kappa, 1981. Shannon has also been honored professionally having received the American Institute of Architects Honor Award (Arkansas Chapter) for First National Bank of Fayetteville, Polk, Shannon, Stanley, Gray Architects, 1982; and also the Environment Monthly National Honor Award for Comprehensive Planning for Chambers County, Texas, Team Plan, Inc. 1975.