Emily McElroy named Associate Dean for Research and Health Sciences for George A. Smathers Libraries

Emily McElroyOn October 3, Emily McElroy will assume the responsibilities as Associate Dean for Research and Health Sciences for the George A. Smathers Libraries at the University of Florida. In this position, she will provide vision and leadership for the Libraries’ research initiatives and our services to the research enterprise, as well as strategic support of the multi-faceted mission of UF’s Health Science Center.

The Smathers Libraries are key partners in advancing the research enterprise, leading, and supporting initiatives to grow infrastructure and services that enhance UF’s diverse research portfolio, which includes over $1 billion in funded research annually. In strategic collaboration with campus partners, the Smathers Libraries contribute to identifying and advancing research support systems, tools, and services that meet campus needs and priorities through deep engagement in education, research, equity, and outreach, including a new emphasis on supporting artificial intelligence. The Associate Dean partners with UF’s research community, representing the Smathers Libraries capabilities, priorities, and values.

McElroy will oversee the Academic Research Consulting & Services (ARCS) team, — https://arcs.uflib.ufl.edu/ — that offers unique expertise and services to support research activities including Artificial Intelligence, Data Management, Informatics & Bioinformatics, Reproducibility of Research, and Research Metrics & Impact, among other services.

The Health Science Center Libraries are central to the Health Science Center (HSC) campuses in Gainesville and Jacksonville, and units elsewhere in Florida, combining deep integration with curriculum, innovative services for researchers, and support for the clinical practice with a dedication to the improving the health of our Florida communities.

McElroy will work collaboratively with the Dean of University Libraries and the senior management team to collectively provide strategic leadership and management. She will identify and develop key relationships; advocate for the role of the Smathers Libraries in supporting health sciences and campus-wide research; and build and grow highly effective, inclusive, and culturally rich innovative teams.

McElroy was the first dean of the Leon S. McGoogan Health Sciences Library at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), position she has held since 2013.

“Under her leadership, the library was transformed. Her constant interactions and engagement with UNMC students, faculty and staff continuously identified ways to improve the quality and content of services provided and integration of technology into the library,” said Dele Davies, MD, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs.

“Dean McElroy led the McGoogan Health Sciences Library through a period of unprecedented change,” UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, said. “Her work in building a remarkable library staff, planning and completing the McGoogan Library renovation, the exhibitions within the Wigton Heritage Center and many more achievements are truly remarkable. She leaves a lasting imprint on the UNMC campus.”

During her tenure as dean, Dr. Davies said McElroy helped oversee the creation of the Wigton Heritage Center, a multi-level, 13,000-square-foot facility that includes gallery and digital exhibit space and allows the Leon S. McGoogan Health Sciences Library staff to showcase previously hidden, prized collections to the campus and public.

She also led a 14-month renovation of the 49,500 square foot McGoogan Health Sciences Library that transformed the library space, Dr. Davies said.

“The Smathers Libraries enthusiastically welcome Emily as the new Associate Dean for Research and Health Sciences. We look forward to Emily’s leadership in supporting the Libraries services research enterprise and guiding the Health Science Center Libraries into the future. She will be a great asset to the Smathers Libraries and the University as we continue to move forward,” said Dean of University Libraries Judith Russell.