HENNIKER — New England College announced the appointment of Mark Watman as the college’s new interim vice president for academic affairs.

Watman is associate professor of writing and director of the master of arts in professional writing program at NEC.

He has been a member of the college’s writing faculty for the past seven years and his work has appeared in journals and publications.

“Over the past few years, professor Watman has taken on additional responsibilities. As the associate dean of academic services, he is responsible for all student services relating to tutoring, mentoring and career planning. In addition, he has overseen the college’s academic program assessment process. With the adoption of NEC’s five-year strategic plan, professor Watman has taken a leadership role in advancing a number of important initiatives, including the move to a year-round academic program,” the college said in a press release on Tuesday.

Watman holds a master of fine arts degree in writing and literature from Bennington College and is a graduate of NEC.

Watman is a Calderwood Fellow for the teaching of writing in all disciplines, with specializations in 19th and 20th century modern and postmodern American poetry.

“Mark Watman has demonstrated outstanding leadership in developing and managing many of the services and programs that are critical to student success at New England College,” said NEC President Michele Perkins in a statement. “His understanding of the academic needs of our students will play a key role in enhancing a challenging and rewarding academic experience for students at New England College.”

Watman replaces Hilton Hallock, who came to the college in 2008. Watman will take on the new responsibilities immediately.

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