As it commemorates 25 years of publishing excellence, the West Virginia University Press is also celebrating new leadership with the announcement of Than Saffel, who has led in an interim capacity since September 2023, as the new director.
In his interim role, Saffel guided the Press over the last year and provided strategic, marketing and editorial direction while also retooling its processes.
“We are excited to welcome Than into this permanent role with the Press,” said Melissa Latimer, associate provost for faculty development and culture. “He brings years of publishing experience and passion for the state to his leadership role, and his thoughtful, innovative outlook will be crucial in preparing the Press for the future.”
Prior to becoming the interim director, Saffel served as the production manager and art director for nearly 20 years. In this role, he oversaw and collaborated with colleagues on the editorial workflow, design and production of nearly all of the Press’s 300-plus titles, in addition to hundreds of associated print and digital products.
From 1988 to 2004, he logged extensive experience designing and implementing museum exhibits, digital media, marketing, advertising and print production for Harvard, Columbia and Brown universities, in addition to for-profit firms in the medical and tech sectors.
Saffel is a 1992 graduate of the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, Massachuttes.
“I'm deeply humbled and gratified to be placed in this position by my senior colleagues at the University,” Saffel said. “As the first native West Virginian to serve as the WVU Press director, I’m keenly aware of the responsibility I carry with me.”
WVU Press, a member of the Association of University Presses, publishes between 12-15 peer-reviewed works annually. It is the largest publisher in the state of West Virginia and is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Learn more at wvupressonline.com, on the press blog and X.