Melanie Bloom Named Interim CFAM Dean

Melanie Bloom, Ph.D., has been named the interim dean of the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media (CFAM), effective July 1, pending Board of Regents approval.

The appointment follows the announcement of current CFAM dean Michael Hilt, Ph.D.'s retirement at the end of June. Bloom will serve in the role while continuing to serve as the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS).

UNO's Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Phil He, Ph.D., announced additional appointments within CFAM to guide the college during the transitional period:

• Melisse Berke, Ph.D., will serve as senior associate dean and will work closely with Interim Dean Bloom to oversee the day-to-day operations of the college.
• Amy Morris, Ph.D., will continue in her role as Director of the School of the Arts and will also serve as Interim Assistant Dean, focusing on curriculum and program innovation, fundraising, and community relationships.
• Abbie Syrek will continue as Assistant Dean in CFAM, focusing on enrollment, recruitment, retention, and student support services, as well as the first-year experience.

“Dr. Bloom brings the experience, leadership, and steady guidance needed to support the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media through this important period of transition,” He said. This leadership structure reflects both the strength of CFAM’s current leadership team and our university’s commitment to stability, collaboration, and continued progress for the benefit of the students and the Omaha community we serve. I am confident that Dr. Bloom, Dr. Berke, Dr. Morris, and Assistant Dean Syrek will provide a strong, collaborative foundation to guide the college forward into an exciting new chapter.”

Bloom first joined UNO in 2005 and was named interim dean of CAS in 2022 and took on the role full-time in 2024.

“It is both an honor and a privilege to serve the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media,” Bloom said. “CFAM has a strong and dedicated leadership team, and I’m looking forward to working closely with them. Their energy, experience, and commitment to students and programs will be essential in moving the college forward. I’ve long admired the impact of CFAM’s academic and community programs. The college produces exceptionally talented graduates, and I’ve had the pleasure of working with many of them through UNO, in the community, and as a parent. That connection makes this opportunity especially meaningful to me.”