Lincoln (Neb.) - Nov. 9, 2001 - James L. Hendrix, dean of the College of Engineering and Technology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has been named interim special assistant to the vice chancellor for research for economic development and technology transfer.
Hendrix had planned to leave his post as dean the end of this academic year to return to classroom teaching, but has agreed to the new assignment to assist with UNL's increased emphasis on engaging the university with the private sector.
William Splinter, George Holmes professor emeritus of biological systems engineering, has agreed to assume the duties as interim dean of Engineering and Technology through the completion of the search for a new dean. Both appointments are effective immediately.
"I am pleased that both of these individuals are willing to place the advancement of the university ahead of their own personal plans," Chancellor Harvey Perlman said. "UNL is indeed fortunate to have professionals of this caliber who have the skills to move the institution ahead."
Splinter served as the head of the department of agricultural engineering from 1968 until 1988, when he was named associate vice chancellor for research. He became interim vice chancellor for research in 1990 and served as vice chancellor for research from 1992 until his retirement in 1993. He also had an earlier term as interim dean of Engineering and Technology from 1994 until Hendrix arrived in 1995. In recent years, he has been director of UNL's Larsen Tractor Museum.
Honored much during his career, Splinter was president of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers (1978-79); and received the Nebraska Society of Professional Engineers Award for Outstanding Engineering Achievement in 1977 and the ASAE Massey Ferguson Gold Medal for Advancement of Engineering Knowledge in 1978. He was elected to the Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement in 1980 and the National Academy of Engineering in 1984. He was named "Boss of the Year" by the University of Nebraska Office Personnel Association in 1990.
Last year, Splinter endowed the Dr. William E. and Eleanor L. Splinter Fund for Biological Systems Engineering in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources in UNL's Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources. The $500,000 gift to the University of Nebraska Foundation funds the Splinter distinguished professorship in biological systems engineering.
"The engineering deanship is a key post for UNL, and as we progress with the national search, it is with a great deal of confidence that I entrust the continued momentum of the college to Dr. Splinter," said Richard Edwards, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs.
Splinter has a bachelor's degree in agricultural engineering from UNL,
and both a master's degree and a Ph.D. from Michigan State University.
For questions regarding these releases, contact:
tsimons1@unl.edu
(402) 472-8514, Fax: (402) 472-7825