Radford University announces selection of Paul Orkiszewski as Dean of the Libraries

Radford University is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Orkiszewski as the Dean of the Libraries after a diligent search conducted by Greenwood Asher and chaired by Benjamin Caldwell, Dean of the College of Graduate Studies and Research.

Reporting to the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, the dean serves in the critical role of supporting student and faculty research, scholarship and the open exploration of ideas. The university hosts two libraries, the McConnell Library on the main campus in Radford, and a Roanoke based Radford University Carilion Library.

Rogers said, "Mr. Orkiszewski brings a wealth of experience to Radford along with his scholarly interests in acquisitions and collections, technology services, digital initiatives, and intellectual property issues in the digital environment."

"I am thrilled and deeply honored to have been named Dean of Radford University Libraries and to become part of the Highlander community," said Orkiszewski, who will join Radford effective Jan. 10, 2022. "I very much look forward to building on the great work that Library staff have done at McConnell and at Radford University Carillion as we develop and build vital, engaged, and inclusive Library spaces and services that will be an active and central part of the intellectual, scholarly and creative life of the students, faculty and staff at Radford."

With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Orkiszewski is currently serving as Interim Dean of the Libraries at Appalachian State University, and has served in that role since 2019. He leads 39 faculty and 55 staff in fulfilling the teaching and learning mission of the university Libraries with a budget of more than $10 million. He earned a bachelor of music and a master of music degree from Rice University as well as a master of Library and Information Science degree from University of Texas at Austin.

Radford University Interim President Carolyn "Lynn" Ringer Lepre, Ph.D., said, "McConnell Library plays a critical role in providing transformative educational experiences and ensuring student success. Mr. Orkiszewski brings extensive experience and innovative thought leadership as the next dean of the libraries at Radford University. I am confident that his ability to collaboratively engage campus partners and the community, cultivate donor relationships, integrate technology, and create inclusive learning environments will significantly contribute to our mission and have a positive impact on our university. I look forward to welcoming him to campus as a Highlander."

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Radford University is a comprehensive public university of 8,998 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 211-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. With over 300 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service. In addition to robust academic offerings and engaging student experiences on the main campus located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University also offers a clinical-based educational experience for more than 1,100 students living and learning in Roanoke, Virginia as part of Radford University Carilion, a public-private partnership focused on the cutting-edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach and service.