LU appoints Dr. Vivienne J. McClendon as dean of Mary and John Gray Library

Lamar University has announced Dr. Vivienne J. McClendon as the new dean of the Mary & John Gray Library. McClendon, an experienced leader in library and instructional services, joins Lamar from California State University in Monterey Bay, where she served as dean of the Tanimura & Antle Family Library.

McClendon holds a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology from the University of Georgia, where her dissertation focused on international collaboration in virtual faculty teams. She also earned a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina and a Master of Arts in History from Midwestern State University, where her thesis explored labor movements in the American West.

As dean, McClendon will oversee a transformative renovation of the Mary & John Gray Library, aimed at turning the space into a state-of-the-art learning center designed to meet the academic and research needs of students and faculty.

"I'm thrilled to lead the dedicated library team as we embark on this transformative renovation project," McClendon said. " Our goal is to create a modern, 21st-century learning environment that supports the academic and research needs of our students, faculty, and staff."

McClendon brings more than 25 years of leadership experience, having previously served as Executive Director of Libraries at the University of Houston Clear Lake and as Dean of Library and eLearning at Bellevue College. In these roles, she spearheaded initiatives to enhance student engagement, faculty collaboration, and technological innovation in library services.

At Lamar University, McClendon will lead efforts to modernize the library, with a focus on expanding digital resources and creating dynamic learning spaces that foster academic success and research.

Her arrival marks a significant step forward in Lamar University’s efforts to provide a cutting-edge library that supports the growing needs of the university community.

“We're confident in our ability to navigate the challenges ahead. Together, we'll build a library that inspires, empowers, and fosters a lifelong love of learning,” McClendon said.