Pending approval by the Penn State U. Board of Trustees next month, David Hall will soon become the College of Information Sciences and Technology’s (IST) new leader.

Hall, who was appointed interim dean on January 1, was chosen to be the next dean by the Penn State administration, Penn State spokesman Geoff Rushton said.

A search committee was formed to conduct a national search for a new dean. But it was not successful in finding a fit for the position, Rushton said.

“Candidates who were interviewed all commented on the job that Dr. Hall had shown as interim dean,” Rushton said.

Hall said he was happy to be dean on a permanent basis, adding that he’s received “broad support” from the administration.

“I think I am pretty ready for the role,” he said. “I’m much more ready than I was eight months ago.”

Hall said he is excited to be working in the ever-changing world of technology.

“IST is a really good college, and it’s in the right place at the right time,” he said. “There’s a rapid evolution of communications technology … and social networking.”

As dean, Hall said it is his job to be a “facilitator that helps understand the needs of the students, capabilities of the faculty, and represent the college externally to parents and donors.”

Tom Bierly, Class of 2010, said Hall is actively involved with IST students. Bierly, who graduated with a degree in information sciences and technology, said Hall held feedback sessions with students each month as interim dean. Hall said he worked hard at making himself easily accessible.

From a student perspective, Bierly said it is the dean’s job to make sure students are getting the education they need.

He said Hall can help bring the college “a fresh perspective” so it can collaborate on academic initiatives at the university.