What's Happening?
Tom Booth, the director of Oregon State University Press (OSUP), has announced his retirement at the end of this month. Booth has been with OSUP for 33 years, starting as a marketing manager and later
becoming associate director in 2007 before being appointed director in 2019. During his tenure, Booth established co-publishing and distribution partnerships with cultural and historical organizations, negotiated licensing deals with international publishers, and expanded outreach to underrepresented readers. Booth expressed pride in his work at OSUP, emphasizing the importance of publishing diverse voices and viewpoints.
Why It's Important?
Booth's retirement marks the end of a significant era for Oregon State University Press, which has benefited from his leadership in expanding its reach and influence. His efforts to forge partnerships and promote diverse scholarship have positioned OSUP as a vital player in academic publishing. The search for a new director presents an opportunity for OSUP to continue its mission under fresh leadership, potentially bringing new strategies and innovations to the press. This transition is crucial for maintaining the momentum in publishing peer-reviewed scholarship and supporting underrepresented voices in academia.
What's Next?
The search for Booth's successor is currently underway, with the aim of finding a leader who can build on his legacy and continue to advance the press's mission. The new director will face the challenge of navigating the evolving landscape of academic publishing, including the integration of digital technologies and the need to address the changing demands of readers and scholars. The outcome of this leadership transition will be closely watched by stakeholders in the academic and publishing communities.
