Friday, May 12, 2000

WILMINGTON, NC -- The Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina today approved the appointment of Dr. Cathy L. Barlow as dean of the Watson School of Education at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington effective July 1.

Barlow joins UNCW from Morehead State University where she was interim dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences since 1999. Prior to being named interim dean, she chaired the Department of Elementary Reading and Special Education from 1994 to 1999.

"I'm delighted to have Dr. Barlow at UNCW," said Dr. John Cavanaugh, UNCW's provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. "She has shown the importance of strong, collaborative ties with the K-12 education system from her prior experience. The Watson School of Education has a long history of promoting collaboration in southeastern North Carolina. I am certain Dr. Barlow will add significantly to these historical ties and introduce innovative approaches to them."

The strong academic reputation of UNCW and the Watson School of Education, as well as the opportunity to concentrate on teacher quality and preparation, were factors in seeking the dean's position, said Barlow. The proposed facility which will house the Watson School of Education was another exciting factor in the decision, Barlow added.

"To be able to incorporate best practices in a state-of-the-art facility and work diligently to maintain and increase partnerships with public schools are challenges that I look forward to undertaking," said Barlow. "I hope to increase the level of collaboration in the community and among colleagues within the university's other colleges and divisions and will support increased faculty research and grant writing. "

Prior to Morehead State University, Barlow was dean of the College of Education and Health Sciences at the University of Evansville, Ind., from 1992 to 1994. She earned a bachelor's degree in education/psychology from Milligan College, Milligan, Tenn., a master's degree in education from Ball State University and a doctoral degree in education from the University of Tulsa.

Media can contact Dr. Barlow in Kentucky at 606/783-2040.