ATHENS, Ohio -- Dean of the Honors Tutorial College Joseph Berman announced his plans to retire from Ohio University, effective June 30.
"This has been a difficult decision for me to make since I have spent most of my career at Ohio University," Berman said. "I have found this place to be unique. I felt it to be an exceptional place -- one that has been supportive of everything that I have ever done and willing to take risks. I have never found another school that provided that type of support. I have also had the opportunity to work with an extraordinary staff and absolutely terrific students."
With Berman as dean, the staff of the college has been enhanced, and it has taken on major university projects including the Office of Nationally Competitive Awards and the Provost's Undergraduate Research Fund.
"Joe has been a key contributor to this institution through his dedication, creativity and perseverance," said interim Provost Gary Schumacher. "As evident through his work with students, staff and faculty, he is an incredibly caring administrator. He will be truly missed and we wish him well."
During his graduate studies at Ohio University, Berman, who received his master's degree in 1966 and doctorate in mass communication in 1968, produced and directed the first Ohio University syndicated children's show, which appeared on 72 television stations. He was a faculty member in the School of Telecommunications and started the Honors Tutorial College Telecommunications program in 1976.
Berman was the founder and served as the first director of the J. Warren McClure School of Communication Systems Management for nine years. Before becoming dean of the Honors Tutorial College in 1995, he served as director of engineering, operations and production in the Telecommunications Center at Ohio University.
Ohio University is the only institution in the United States with a degree-granting college incorporating all the essential features of the traditional tutorial system. Currently, there are 26 major areas of study offered by the college.
