The search for Central Michigan University’s College of Communication and Fine Arts dean is over.

Salma Ghanem, chairwoman of the communication department at the University of Texas Pan American, accepted the position last week and was selected by Provost Julia Wallace over fellow position finalist Jack Bowman, who is dean of the School of Fine Arts at the University of Minnesota Duluth.

“I’m joining a great college,” Ghanem said. “Everything I’ve heard about CMU has been nothing but positive.”

She said she had received an e-mail from CMU media relations earlier in the day. DIrector of Media Relations Steve Smith said the department was in the process of forming an press release per the proper protocol.

Sharon Valdes, Ghanem’s assistant, said she has worked with her for the last year and half and will be sad to see her leave.

“We work with her very close everyday,” Valdes said “I love her and I’m going to miss her, but I’m happy for her … she’s going to be the most awesome dean you’ve ever had.”

Ghanem has been at the University of Texas for 14 years and has been in her current position for eight. She said she will begin duties at CMU in early August.

Former CCFA associate dean Diane Krider has been interim dean since the beginning of the semester when Sue Ann Martin stepped down.

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E-mail the author: Jackie Smith