Gantz selected for 2023 Communication Science Service Award
Walter Gantz – former Media School dean, associate dean, director of communication science, and chair of telecommunications – has been awarded the 2023 Communication Science Service Award.
In concert with the Communication Science Merit Review Committee, each spring the director of communication science, Paul Wright, selects a unit member whose service activities are extraordinary. In addition to formal recognition for their service, the awardee typically receives $1,000 to further their research or creative activities. Consistent with his “colleagues first” approach, however, Gantz declined the monetary aspect of the award asking that the monies be utilized to further the research activities of other communication science faculty.
“I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award than professor Gantz,” said Herman B Wells Endowed Professor and Media School Associate Dean Radhika Parameswaran. “Scores of us at IU Bloomington have benefited from his wisdom, kindness, and guidance, always delivered in the most thoughtful and dialogic manner. Walt, as we all know him, is a selfless and generous mentor who always makes the time to listen and offer counsel in the most patient and egalitarian way. I am delighted he has been selected for this award.”
Founding Media School dean and professor of communication science James Shanahan said he could not agree more with this assessment.
“Walt epitomizes service to the communication science unit, the Media School, and Indiana University,” Shanahan said.
Wright said he never thought he would encounter a mentor and guide whose magnanimity and benevolence approached that of Dale Kunkel and Edward Donnerstein, who served on his doctoral committee.
“But Walt’s does,” said Wright. “His ability to bring out the best in every person he works with can neither be quantified nor overstated.”
Given that Gantz and Kunkel are competitive swimmers, former IU colleagues, and collaborators – and having swam with both – Wright did feel compelled to note that he’d give the aquatic edge to Kunkel.
“But Dale would not dispute that Walt would run circles around him on the track,” said Wright (Gantz once coached the University of Buffalo varsity track and cross-country teams).
“On behalf of communication science, The Media School, and the entire Indiana University community, congratulations Walt, and thank you,” said Wright.