University of Utah chooses new education dean

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The University of Utah has chosen a bilingual University of Texas professor as its dean of the College of Education.

María Fránquiz teaches qualitative research methods and bilingual teacher education in Austin, where she is also part of the faculty at the Center for Mexican American Studies. She received her doctorate from the University of California-Santa Barbara in 1995. Fránquiz has published many papers in professional journals and academic books, and co-edits the Bilingual Research Journal, according to a U. statement.

A native of Puerto Rico, Fránquiz has taught in Germany, Panama and several U.S. states.

Fránquiz replaces Michael Hardman, who was named interim vice president for academic affairs last year. Her appointment is effective Jan. 6. It requires approval from U. president David Pershing and the Board of Trustees. Educational psychology professor Michael Gardner will serve as acting dean after the current interim dean, John McDonnell, steps down Aug. 1.

lwhitehurst@sltrib.com

Twitter: @lwhitehurst