4/7/97 Contact: Patricia Richard, Ohio University, 614/593-1935

ATHENS, Ohio -- Patricia Bayer Richard, dean of University College at Ohio University, assumed the presidency of the Association of University College Deans and Directors of Undergraduate Studies at the association's annual meeting in March in Corpus Christi, Texas. She will serve a one-year term.

The national association is an organization for deans and directors of colleges or divisions responsible for academic advising and programs and services focusing on the broad academic experiences of undergraduate students. Membership is institutional rather than individual, and the current membership approaches 100.

Richard has been dean of University College since 1992. She joined the Ohio University political science faculty in 1972. She has served as director of the political science graduate program and is former director of the university's Center for Political Communication. She also chaired Faculty Senate from 1985-87.

University College focuses on undergraduates and the quality of their experience. In addition to serving its own students -- ranging from freshmen exploring the university before selecting a major to degree students in criminal justice and specialized studies baccalaureate programs -- it plays a university-wide role in orientation, general education, curricular innovation and support for enhancement of teaching and learning.