New Advertising Department Chair Brings New Vision

Professor Cunningham has a unique view on her position as an administrator: she wants to make sure that the members of the department "understand what the goals are and internalize them." She wants to help the faculty members implement their ideas and pursue their visions without telling them what to do and what to research. Isabella Cunningham has a definite vision and she wants to try to help the faculty members compliment that vision by allowing them to be innovators in their own fields.The University of Texas Department of Advertising recently named Isabella Cunningham as the new Department Chair. With her assumption of this position, Professor Cunningham brings a new vision. She has been in the Advertising Department since 1975 and takes great pride in the Department because she feels as though she has helped build it. When it comes to administrative positions, Professor Cunningham is successful in part because she is able to separate business and friendship. According to her, there are no gray areas in administration, only black and white." She also strongly believes that, "academic departments in professional schools should be leaders, not followers" and it is through this conviction that she exhibits her personal philosophies.

The first step toward accomplishing this vision has been the acquisition of three new faculty members: Sejung Marina Choi, John A. Fortunato, and Carson B Wagner. Professor Cunningham is extremely proud of these "new hires" and believes that each compliment the existing faculty. There is a new enthusiasm within the University of Texas Advertising Department and Isabella Cunningham has undoubtedly been the spark!

10/15/2002