Rankin Named Interim Dean for School of Continuing Education and Academic Outreach

Photo Submitted

Pauline Rankin, interim dean, School of Continuing Education and Academic Outreach

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Pauline Rankin, the director of non-traditional and adult programs in the University of Arkansas School of Continuing Education and Academic Outreach (the Global Campus), has been named interim dean of the school. She will replace Linda Beene Ballard, who retired as dean effective July 1. Sharon Gaber, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, said that Rankin will serve as interim dean from July 1 until June 30, 2011. During that period Gaber and Rankin will review and assess the Global Campus and its relationship to the university.

“We are pleased to have someone with Dr. Rankin’s breadth of experience at this significant juncture in the school’s history. We look to continue to build on its strengths and offer even more distance education opportunities,” said Gaber.

Rankin joined the Global Campus in December 2009. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in educational technology with a minor in library science from Louisiana State University, a Master of Education in elementary education from the University of Arkansas, and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Arkansas Tech University.

Before coming to the Global Campus, Rankin worked at Louisiana State University as dean of the Division of Continuing Education from 2003 to 2006, vice provost for academic affairs from 2001 to 2003, and associate vice chancellor for instruction from 1999 to 2001.

While at LSU Rankin established compressed video facilities to deliver off-campus courses, leading to the development of online courses and enabling LSU to offer to two master’s degrees online. She also established a Center for Faculty Development and started an orientation program for new faculty.