Simmons College

Characterizing the distinctions between academic library management and academic library leadership has been an area of research interest to Rosita Hopper (known as Rosie) since the start of her doctoral studies in 2004, and as a direct result of her experiences as a practitioner. She has been employed at Johnson & Wales University since 1992, starting as a cataloging librarian and eventually assuming the role of library director. Rosie is quick to acknowledge that her academic library cataloging and technical services or "back of house" experience, her previous "front of house" career as a professional dancer, as well as her multiple avocations provide an eclectic yet remakably suitable range of skills upon which to draw in her current occupation. "An academic library director must possess not only a good cognitive grasp of the library's operational issues at a micro and macro level, and an appreciation of larger professional, educational and social issues, but then must also be able to step back and recognize the symbolic force of her actions as well that of the library as an element in the institution's narrative." Recent professional accomplishments have included a presentation on emotional intelligence in library leadership, conducted for the 2007 annual meeting of the Rhode Island Library Association; and serving as an accreditation application site evaluator for the New England Association of Schools & Colleges, Commission on Higher Education.