Fitzpatrick Named Letters and Science Associate Dean

Mary Anne Fitzpatrick, an expert in family communication, has assumed the position of associate dean for the social sciences in the University of Wisconsin–Madison College of Letters and Science.

Fitzpatrick’s research on styles of family communication has received national attention. In addition to her work on relationship patterns, Fitzpatrick also brings ample experience in campus and college administration to her new post, according to Dean Phillip R. Certain.

“She chaired the Social Studies Divisional Committee in 1985- 86 and has served on the Graduate School Research Committee. She also is the chair of the L&S Honorary Degrees Committee, and is currently a member of the L&S Planning Council and chairs the L&S Curriculum Committee,” Certain says. In addition, Fitzpatrick chairs her home department of Communication Arts.

Fitzpatrick replaces Peter D. Spear, former UW–Madison professor of psychology, who was named dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Colorado- Boulder last year. Fitzpatrick earned her Ph.D. from Temple University. She assumed her new position at the start of the second semester.

CONTACT: Phil Certain, (608) 263- 2303, pcertain@ls.admin.wisc.edu; Mary Anne Fitzpatrick, (608) 262-2277 mfitzpat@facstaff.wisc.edu