The Annenberg School has tapped one of the nation’s most respected scholars in American politics, public opinion research and mass media to be its next dean. Michael X. Delli Carpini (C/G’75), who currently serves as director of the Public Policy Program for the Pew Charitable Trusts, will succeed Kathleen Hall Jamieson in this leadership post.

Known for his accomplishments in both the public policy and academic arenas, Carpini is a critical player when it comes to shaping the American democratic process. While at Pew, he implemented initiatives that enhance participation in civic life, renew the quality and meaning of campaigns and elections and improve government performance.

Prior to his stint at Pew, Carpini served academic posts at Columbia University, Barnard College and Rutgers University. The prolific author has published four books, most recently “What Americans Know About Politics and Why It Matters,” and dozens of journal articles, essays and panel papers on a wide variety of political and public policy issues.

Jamieson, who has guided the school for the last 14 years, will continue to direct the Annenberg Public Policy Center.