USNA Selects Dr. Alan Karass as Dean of Information Services and Director of Nimitz Library
POSTED ON: Monday, May 20, 2024 8:47 AM by Nimitz Library
Dr. Alan Karass has been appointed as Dean for Information Services and Director of Nimitz Library for the U.S. Naval Academy effective July 15. Dr. Karass, who has most recently served as the Dean of Libraries and Head of the Music Library at Columbus State University in Columbus, Georgia, emerged as the successful candidate from a nationwide search.
The Dean for Information Services and Director of Nimitz Library is directly responsible for the administration of all library operations. Supported by a staff of 30 professionals, the Nimitz Library offers comprehensive library services to midshipmen, faculty, and staff. It also serves as a hub for community and collaboration, supporting lunchtime concerts, talks, poster sessions, and other special events.
“Nimitz Library is a special place,” said Academic Dean and Provost Dr. Samara Firebaugh. “I’m confident that Dr. Karass has the wisdom and experience to carry on the good work of its capable staff and to support the library’s role as the heart of our academic endeavor at USNA.”
Dr. Karass has his M.S. in Library Science from Simmons University in Boston, MA. He also has a Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology from The Open University in the UK, a Masters in Historical Musicology from the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT, a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Clark University in Worcester, MA, and a Certificate in Modern Standard Arabic from the Institut Bourguiba in Tunis, Tunisia. Prior to his current position he served in the libraries of the College of the Holy Cross and the New England Conservatory.
“I believe that information literacy and research skills are critical for our future leaders,” said Karass. “I look forward to working with midshipmen, faculty, and staff to ensure that the Nimitz Library continues to be the welcoming, service-oriented, intellectual hub of the Yard. It is a great honor to be able to serve such a historic and prestigious institution in this role.”
Established as the undergraduate college of the nation's naval service, the Naval Academy prepares young men and women to become officers of competence, character, and compassion in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Naval Academy midshipmen are active-duty members of the U.S. Navy. They undergo four years of rigorous education, graduating with bachelor of science degrees and commissions as ensigns in the Navy or second lieutenants in the Marine Corps. Graduates of the Naval Academy commit to a minimum of five years of service in the Navy or Marine Corps.
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