The University of Cincinnati announced that Elizabeth Scarpelli has been selected as the inaugural director of the new University of Cincinnati Press. Scarpelli has over 25 years of experience in book publishing for Baker & Taylor, and Bookmasters, as well as serving as sales and marketing director for the Rutgers University Press.
The new University of Cincinnati Press will be a product of the University of Cincinnati Libraries. Initially, the University of Cincinnati Press will focus on two programs: peer-reviewed scholarly works in social justice and a community engagement imprint featuring the rich history of Cincinnati and its university, especially with respect to social justice themes. In addition to publishing both print and e-books, the University of Cincinnati Press will be a leader in the exploration of new modes of academic work and scholarly communication. These may involve scholarly and creative works in a global sphere in digital media, web-based interactive digital scholarship, multi-authored databases, and library special collections and archives.”
In accepting the position as director, Scarpelli said, “I’m impressed by the exceptional level of support, strength of the team and unique model they presented for academic publishing and serving scholars, practitioners and students in the field of social justice. Joining this mission with regional lists and a community engagement focus will unify the entire program and provide an ideal home for my vision of how university press publishing remains relevant. I look forward to digging in to secure a solid presence in scholarly publishing for the Press and the university.”