FSU School of Information Studies prepares to honor longtime faculty member
The Florida State University School of Information Studies will honor Professor Ronald Blazek, who will retire at the end of Spring semester. Dr. Blazek has taught at the school for 32 years and is nationally known for his work in reference and library history.
“The School says a heartfelt ‘thank you’ for a job well done to a professor who has, more than any other, defined library reference services,” said Dean Jane Robbins. “Literally thousands of master’s degree students have learned respect for the inquiring mind from Ron and some 100 doctoral students have benefited from his deft guidance.”
Dr. Blazek has served as major professor and committee member for more doctoral candidates than any other LIS faculty member at the school. He has written numerous publications including eleven books, the latest of which is the second edition of “United States History: A Multicultural Guide to Information Sources.” The book, which is due to be released in April, was co-authored with University of South Florida Associate Professor Anna Perrault.
“I think of the many wonderful people, colleagues, students, and staff members that have touched my life and have been so important to my career development that I can’t help but feel sad that this period has come to an end,” Dr. Blazek said. “On the bright side, however, I know I leave this dynamic scene to a great bunch of individuals who will move the School to new heights.”
The School will host a retirement celebration from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on April 18 on campus, which will be followed by an open house at the Blazek’s residence. Current and former students are encouraged to submit letters detailing their experiences with Dr. Blazek. These letters will be placed in a memories book that will be presented to him during the retirement celebration. For more information about the reception or to send your letter, contact Diane Jenkins at (850) 644-8125 or djenkins@lis.fsu.edu.
The Ron Blazek Graduate Scholarship has been created to honor him and assist students with career goals in the library field. To make a contribution by credit card, visit https://foundation.fsu.edu/. For more information about how to make a contribution,, please contact Emily Grimm Glaccum at (850) 644-1364 or emily.grimm@comm.fsu.edu.
Dean Robbins said she is excited for Dr. Blazek, but she does not think the School will be quite the same without him.
“His colleagues wish him a productive retirement,” Dr. Robbins said. “He cannot be replaced and he will be greatly missed.”