The San José State University School of Information announces a change in leadership effective March 16, 2020. Dr. Sandra Hirsh is transitioning from her role as director and professor at the iSchool to associate dean for academics in the SJSU College of Professional and Global Education. 

“Serving as the iSchool director over the last 10 years has been the highlight of my career! I am very proud of what we have accomplished during this period,” Hirsh stated.

The iSchool has more than 2,000 graduate students from all over the nation, Canada and around the world. It was one of the first schools to offer a fully online Master of Library and Information Science degree program and in 2019 celebrated 10 years of delivering 100% online programs in the information field. Recognized by the Online Learning Consortium with multiple awards, the iSchool’s online learning environment provides an enriching and engaging 21^st Century technology experience for students worldwide.  

During her tenure as director, the iSchool has continued to expand its program offerings; innovate in the online learning space; engage in student success initiatives; improve its research culture; enrich its curriculum and professional development offerings; and develop a sense of community amongst faculty, students, and staff. For example, Hirsh was instrumental in launching the certificate programs, MOOCs, and a third master’s degree, the MS in Informatics program. She also developed the Center for Information Research and Innovation and co-founded the Library 2.0 Worldwide Virtual Conference, which is celebrating its 10^th year in 2020.

Hirsh will continue to be involved with the iSchool during the transition period until the new director is on board. For instance, she will attend professional association conferences representing the iSchool. In addition, since the iSchool is one of two schools and departments within the College of Professional and Global Education, Hirsh will continue to be involved with the iSchool in her new role. 

She explained, “While I will no longer be serving as iSchool director, I am very happy that I will be able to continue to support and work with the iSchool in my new role as associate dean for academics in the College of Professional and Global Education.”

In an email to faculty and staff announcing her new position at SJSU, Hirsh said, “Thank you for all of your support of the iSchool over the years! It has been a tremendous honor and a delight to work with you and to serve as the iSchool director. I look forward to continuing to support the iSchool in my new capacity.”

Previously scheduled online forums with students (April 29 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time) and part-time faculty (April 30 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time) are still planned and present an opportunity for students and faculty members to ask questions about the transition. Meeting invites will be sent out as the session dates near.

A national and international search for a new director will be conducted soon. In the meantime, Associate Director Linda Main will serve as interim director until the new permanent director is hired.