Summary：**Dr. Nadine I. Kozak Honored as New Associate Dean, Guiding UW‑Milwaukee’s Information Studies**

**Dr. Nadine I. Kozak Honored as New Associate Dean, Guiding UW‑Milwaukee’s Information Studies**

*Introduction*
The University of Wisconsin‑Milwaukee announced this week that Dr. Nadine I. Kozak has been appointed Associate Dean of the School of Information Studies. The appointment, effective July 1, recognizes her two‑decade record of scholarship, teaching, and community engagement in the evolving fields of information science, data stewardship, and digital literacy. University leaders highlighted her ability to bridge theory and practice as a key factor in the decision, noting that her vision aligns with the school’s strategic push to expand interdisciplinary programs and strengthen industry partnerships.

*Key Developments*
Dr. Kozak’s new role places her at the helm of curriculum redesign, faculty mentorship, and outreach initiatives aimed at attracting a more diverse student body. She will oversee the integration of emerging topics such as artificial intelligence ethics, cybersecurity policy, and user‑experience research into core courses. In addition, the associate dean will lead efforts to secure external funding for research labs that focus on information access in underserved communities. Early reactions from faculty emphasize her collaborative style; several colleagues cited her recent NSF‑funded project on metadata standards as a model for the kind of innovative work they hope to see expanded under her leadership.

*Industry Analysis*
The information studies sector is experiencing rapid transformation as organizations grapple with data proliferation, privacy regulations, and the demand for skilled analysts who can translate raw data into actionable insight. According to a 2024 report by the Association for Information Science and Technology, enrollment in graduate information programs has risen 12% nationally over the past three years, driven by growth in health informatics, digital archives, and corporate knowledge management. Dr. Kozak’s background—spanning academic research, consulting for public libraries, and advisory work for state agencies—positions her to help UW‑Milwaukee meet these market needs while maintaining a strong emphasis on ethical information practices.

*Future Outlook*
Looking ahead, the associate dean plans to launch a speaker series