3/14/02 Janet L. McCoy, 334/844-9999

DOWNER NAMED INTERIM DEAN OF AU LIBRARIES

AUBURN -- Sherida H. Downer, who has more than 30 years of library administrative experience, has been appointed interim dean of Auburn University Libraries.

The appointment was made by John Pritchett, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs.

"I am delighted that Sheri has accepted the challenges of this most important position during this transitional period," Pritchett said. "Her extensive experience and knowledge of our university community will serve our faculty, our students, and our entire community in an exemplary fashion."

Downer, whose appointment was effective March 1, replaced Stella Bentley who resigned to accept a position at the University of Kansas.

Downer, who joined AU Libraries in 1978, has held a number of positions within AU's library system, most recently as assistant dean for Technical Services and Systems. During her Auburn career, Downer has also been head of the Systems Department and Circulation Department.

She earned a bachelor's degree from George Williams College in Downers Grove, Ill.; a master's in library science from Rosary College in River Forest, Ill.; and has completed graduate work at Lewis University in Lockport, Ill.; and at AU.

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