The newest dean on campus is expected to take the College of Education to new heights with his expertise proven by his past achievements, a UA administrator said.

Ronald W. Marx, a professor and administrator at the School of Education of the University of Michigan, will take the saddle of the College of Education at UA on Aug. 15.

The veteran educator was chosen over two other finalists, Steven Bossert and Kathryn Borman, in the search. His standout characteristics that made him the person for the job were his excellent faculty relationship skills, his skill of combining research with teacher preparation and his enthusiasm, said Provost George Davis.

"Linking all of these together is critical," Davis said.

Marx could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.

Aside from catapulting UM's education school well into the national rankings, Marx was also known for his work as co-director of the Center for Learning Technologies in Urban Schools, a collaboration among UM, Northwestern University and the Chicago and Detroit public school systems.

Davis said a call to the severely troubled Detroit school district further illustrated Marx's dedication to the field.

The Detroit district officials also said the program's greater success compared to its performance in Chicago was from Marx's direct involvement.

Marx will replace Interim Dean Theresa McCarty, who took the position after former Dean John Taylor retired last year.