University News

Hancks Named Executive Director of School of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach

May 10, 2017

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MACOMB, IL -- Jeff Hancks, Florence and Lillian Baxter Snyder Professor of Regional and Icarian Studies and coordinator of Archives and Special Collections in Western Illinois University's Malpass Library, has been named executive director of Western Illinois University's School of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach, effective July 1.

Hancks has served as interim director of the School since November 2016. He has served as the Snyder Professor and coordinator of Archives and Special Collections since 2005. In 2015, he served as a guest professor and researcher at Rodding People's College in Denmark. Hancks has also served as the interim director of development for University Libraries (2006-2007). Prior to joining the WIU faculty, he was an assistant professor and public services librarian at Clarke Historical Library at Central Michigan University. He has also worked as the head librarian at the School of Journalism and Mass Communication Library at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

"Dr. Hancks has done a tremendous job leading the School as the interim director. His expertise and experiences will continue to move the School forward and enhance its many initiatives," said Interim Provost Kathy Neumann.

Hancks is the author of "Scandinavians in Michigan" and "Western Illinois University: A Campus History," and is the founding editor of the upcoming series "Celebrating the Peoples of Illinois."

"I am honored to continue leading the School of Distance Learning, International Studies and Outreach," Hancks said. "We are doing great things in the School to provide additional educational opportunities to our online students, and we are making great strides at internationalizing our campus, and I look forward to our continued progress."

He received his doctorate from Northern Illinois University, two master's degrees from University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master's degree from WIU, and his bachelor's degree from North Park University. Hancks also holds a certificate in international business from the University of Southern Denmark.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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