Campus News

Leonard Named School of Business Dean

(November 5, 2004)

Paul Leonard

Interim Provost Jeryl L. Mumpower has announced the appointment of Paul Leonard as dean of the School of Business, effective November 1. Interim President John R. Ryan mentioned Leonard�s appointment in his fall faculty address on October 28. The appointment will run through the balance of this academic year and the following two academic years.

�The action was approved by the President based on my recommendation, which was formed following consultation with the School of Business faculty,� Mumpower said. �The results of that process affirmed for us that Dr. Leonard possesses the talent, experience, and dedication necessary to advance the school�s programs and reputation in the years immediately ahead. We all deeply appreciate his interest in and willingness to accept this major assignment at this important juncture in the institution�s development.�

Mumpower said the University will conduct a search for its next permanent dean of the School of Business after the next president and provost are appointed and during the term of Leonard�s own appointment. �It is our mutual agreement that he will not be a candidate in that search,� Mumpower said.

The interim provost added, �Let me also take this opportunity, for both myself and the President, to express our strong support for Paul�s leadership on behalf of several initiatives that hold great promise for strengthening both the School of Business and the University. These include the energy and focus he is giving to the creation of a new School of Business building and to building a more student-centered culture within the school. The University�s senior leadership shares his commitment to these objectives and stands ready to assist him in any way we can to move them forward during his tenure as dean.�

Mumpower concluded, �I want to thank the School of Business faculty for their counsel in making his decision. And I invite all of you to join me in congratulating Paul on this appointment and on the outstanding record of professional achievements and service on which it is based.�