Ross, an associate professor of film, has been a cinematographer and filmmaker for more than 25 years. His documentary "Liberia: A Fragile Peace" (2006) is in worldwide distribution. He also was cinematographer and co-director of "Fishers of Dar" (2001), an award-winning portrait of life in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Prior to his arrival at Ohio University in 2002, he taught filmmaking for eight years at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn.

"This is a wonderful opportunity. Our students come from all over the world and the United States," Ross said. "I'm excited to work with a dynamic faculty to continue to develop filmmakers and film scholars, and to create a culture where our students can grow and realize their potential."

The School of Film is dedicated to providing an educational environment of creativity, diversity and excellence, Ross said. Approximately 50 graduate students and 10 undergraduates study each year in the School of Film. Nearly half are international students from Europe, Asia and South America. The school offers two graduate degrees, a master of fine arts in film and a master of arts in international film, as well as a bachelor of fine arts through the Honors Tutorial College and a film minor.

The school allows talented students -- filmmakers and film scholars -- to examine and develop the art and craft of the motion picture as an art form, educational tool and a dynamic cultural force in the 21st century.

Ross has served as interim director since September. He replaced Jody Lamb, now associate dean of the college.