UA Chooses New Director of University of Alabama Press

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Linda Manning, director of Northern Illinois University Press, has been appointed director of The University of Alabama Press starting Aug. 1.

She replaces interim director Daniel Waterman. The University of Alabama Press is the only academic press in the state.

“Linda brings strong experience in the academic publishing world that will be a great asset to the University,” said Dr. Kevin Whitaker, interim provost. “She has excellent ideas about developing new directions for the press while building on our already strong reputation. The press serves a key role statewide and nationwide in advancing scholarship and the University’s research mission.”

Manning served as director of NIU Press since she returned to the institution in July 2013. In Illinois, Manning led a staff of seven in acquiring and managing the publication of scholarly books, including manuscripts in the areas of U.S. history, regional studies, Southeast Asian studies and Midwestern fiction.

From 2004 to 2010, she served in a number of marketing capacities at NIU Press. She also worked as marketing director for the University of Utah Press from 2010 to 2013. She holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University.

As the scholarly publishing arm of the University, The University of Alabama Press serves as an agent in the advancement of learning and the dissemination of scholarship, publishing between 70 and 75 titles a year. The press applies the highest standards to all phases of publishing including acquisitions, editorial, production and marketing.

An editorial board comprised of representatives from all doctoral-degree-granting public universities within Alabama oversees the publishing program. It is a member of the Association of American University Presses.