John Coleman, a political scientist at the University of Wisconsin, has been named the new dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota.

Coleman, who has been chair of the political science department at Wisconsin since 2007, is slated to head the U's largest college starting in July 31, pending approval by the Board of Regents.

"John has a track record as a trustworthy and highly effective academic leader," said Provost Karen Hanson in a news release Wednesday announcing his appointment. "He has been a strong and persuasive advocate for the liberal arts."

Coleman is an expert on political parties and elections, and has written or edited six books. The interim dean, Raymond Duvall, also a political scientist, will remain in the position until Coleman arrives.

The previous dean, James Parente Jr., stepped down last June to return to teaching. A professor of German, Scandinavian and Dutch, he served as dean of liberal arts since 2008.