The University of Maryland has appointed John Bertot as dean of its College of Information, effective July 1, 2026, as the institution looks to further expand its leadership in information science, technology, and data-driven research.
Bertot will oversee a community of more than 3,000 faculty, staff, and students, with a mandate to advance interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthen academic programs, and promote research focused on how information and technology impact society. The role also includes building on the college’s position as a nationally ranked leader in information science education and innovation.
A longtime member of the university, Bertot currently serves as associate provost for faculty affairs and professor in the College of Information. Over the past decade, he has expanded the scope and influence of the Office of Faculty Affairs, which manages faculty appointments, promotion and tenure processes, professional development, and institutional policy alignment.
During his tenure, Bertot launched leadership initiatives such as Fearless Unit Leadership and Fearless Leadership Foundations, while strengthening partnerships with organizations including the Big Ten Academic Alliance and the Association of American Universities. He also led reforms for professional track faculty, including improvements to contracts, compensation, promotion pathways, and workload policies, as well as broader efforts to align faculty incentives with institutional priorities.
Bertot’s research spans information policy, digital government, public service innovation, and the role of libraries in advancing digital inclusion. He has authored seven books and nearly 100 journal articles, with his work supported by organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the American Library Association, and the National Science Foundation. His research has also been cited in a U.S. Supreme Court decision.
The College of Information at the University of Maryland is recognized as a national leader in the field. The university is the top producer of information sciences bachelor’s degrees among residential institutions, and its Master of Library and Information Science program is ranked No. 3 in the country.
Before joining the University of Maryland in 2008, Bertot held faculty positions at Florida State University, the State University of New York at Albany, and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications from SUNY Albany and his Ph.D. from Syracuse University.
KEY QUOTES:
“It has been both a privilege and an honor to work alongside Dr. Bertot. His deep respect for his INFO colleagues has shaped every aspect of his leadership in faculty affairs. I’m confident that Dr. Bertot’s vision for a college grounded in collaboration, inclusion and societal impact will mark yet another important chapter for INFO’s impressive rise.”
Jennifer King Rice, Senior Vice President And Provost, University Of Maryland
“UMD’s College of Information is renowned for its innovative instructional programs and faculty, dedicated staff and engaged students. I’m honored to lead a college that exemplifies creativity, a commitment to inclusive excellence, and a strong desire to serve the public good. I look forward to what we can accomplish together.”
John Bertot, Incoming Dean, College Of Information, University Of Maryland
