Michael Hilt Named CFAM Interim Dean

Dr. Michael Hilt has been named interim dean of the College of Communication, Fine Arts, and Media (CFAM). The decision was announced today by Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs B.J. Reed. Hilt replaces Gail F. Baker, who has served as Dean of CFAM since 2006. He will assume his new position in July.

“Mike has shown excellent leadership in this role as associate dean and his stellar commitment to the success of the students, faculty and staff of the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media, will continue the legacy that Gail has built as the founding dean of the college,” Reed said.

UNO Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, added: “I want to thank Dean Baker for her superb and enthusiastic leadership as well as thank and congratulate Dean Hilt for his willingness to lead the college through this transitional period.”

Hilt, who has a Ph.D. in Community and Human Resources from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joined UNO as a professor in 1988 in what is now known as the School of Communication. He was named CFAM Assistant Dean in 2007 and later promoted to Associate Dean.

Prior to joining UNO, Hilt served as a news reporter, anchor and producer for several radio and television stations in Topeka and Kansas City.

“I am incredibly honored to be able to have the opportunity to continue the success we have had in the college under Gail’s leadership,” he said. “My top priority is to make sure that our students are getting the best educational experiences they can so they can be set up for success as the next generation of artists, communicators, and innovators.”

In April, Baker announced that she would be leaving UNO after accepting a position as Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at the University of San Diego.

Baker came to UNO in 2006 from her role as Vice President for Public Relations at the University of Florida. At UNO, she oversaw the beginnings of CFAM, which today oversees the School of Communication, School of the Arts and School of Music, as well as KVNO Radio and UNO Television.

“Through all of my experiences in the professional world and in higher education, few things have made me as proud as to serve as the founding dean of the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media,” she said. “This is a college that educates truly exceptional students and features world-class faculty and staff. Mike is a gifted leader and educator who will continue these commitments to excellence.”

Reed will announce any updates to campus on plans for a permanent replacement.