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By University Communications
February 22, 2008

University of Arizona President Robert N. Shelton has appointed Juan R. García to serve as vice president for instruction and dean of the University College. Originally appointed to the faculty in 1981, García currently serves as vice provost for faculty affairs at the UA.

As vice president, García will lead a broad portfolio of University departments to maximize the delivery of high-quality instruction among the UA’s colleges, schools, departments and centers. He also will oversee academic support programs, including transfer articulation, the University Teaching Center and the Integrated Learning Center.

As dean of the UA’s University College, García will lead advising and major-exploration programs for undecided and transitional students, along with the University’s interdisciplinary degree programs.

In addition, García will be the University's administrative liaison for instruction to degree-granting colleges and student support units.

”I am pleased to serve the University and our students in this capacity. We have developed a sound foundation in moving us toward a student-centered university. My goal is to further enhance the quality and value of the learning experience we provide all students at the UA,” García said. “My thanks to all of those who supported my candidacy and to President Shelton for his confidence in me. I look forward to advancing the educational and instructional excellence that our students deserve.”

García joined the faculty of the UA’s History department in 1981. His other administrative appointments at the UA include head of the History department, associate dean for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and vice provost for academic affairs.

He also served for three years as senior vice president for academic affairs and dean of the College of Saint Mary in Omaha, Neb.

”Juan García has a distinguished record of leadership and academic accomplishment, and I am pleased that he has accepted this new position,” Shelton said. “I am sure that his efforts will ultimately help enhance the academic experience for thousands of UA students”

García earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Mexico/Latin American History from DePaul University. He received his doctorate in U.S. History and Mexican-American Studies, along with a second master’s degree in U.S. History, from the University of Notre Dame.

García’s appointment is pending approval by the Arizona Board of Regents, who will vote on his appointment at its March meeting.