Known to many and often recognized for his classic bow tie, Dean Jorge Reina Schement agreed to loop in the community on his signature style and unknot the mystery of the man behind it!

With more than sixty-five bow ties in his collection, one might think it would be hard to pick a favorite, but Dean Schement says it is an easy pick. His favorite is his “un bow tie” made of cotton that he received as a gift. Most bow ties are made of silk, but Dean Schement prefers his colorful cotton bow tie that does not have a crimp, is more than eighty years old, and is usually reserved for special black tie affairs. Dean Schement cited his father as his bow tie inspiration, “My father wore bow ties, and growing up I wanted to be like him.”

For those who want to try out the Dean’s sartorial taste, Dean Schement says, “The trick to tying a bow tie is to get it even. Try tying a bow tie on your thigh to practice. I still have to look in the mirror to get it just right, but you won’t find any clip-ons in my collection.”

Behind the stylish bow tie is a cited scholar, distinguished professor, published author, and visionary dean. In his current role as Dean of the School of Communication and Information (SC&I), Dean Schement sets the direction for what SC&I is, moves the school to a higher level of accomplishment, and creates an environment where faculty, staff, and students can do the best work and the best learning. Everyday duties of the Dean include engaging partners across the School, University, and international community to coordinate strategic action and facilitate change. One big responsibility that he is currently helping to steer is the 250th anniversary of Rutgers University.

As for the best part about being the Dean, Dean Schement says it is working with such a talented group. He describes SC&I as “a very creative community filled with engaging ideas, the finest young faculty in the profession, matched with a great senior faculty, and engaging and bright students.”

Watch Dean Schement share a warm welcome to the fall 2012 semester and a few updates for the new academic year:

In honor of the Dean’s passion for bow ties, SC&I celebrated National Bow Tie Day on August 28, 2012. One of the first bow ties Dean Schement purchased was red, white, and blue so SC&I faculty, staff, and students donned bow ties to dress like the Dean for the day. You can also find photos in the "SC&I Celebrates National Bow Tie Day" album on our SC&I Facebook page.

More Fun Facts about Dean Jorge Schement

• English is not his first language–Spanish is
• Navy Veteran
• Oldest of four sisters and two brothers
• Originally from South Texas-San Antonio area