Jessica Retrum, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Social Work, will serve as interim dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences following the departure of Hope Szypulski, DNP, from the role.
In announcing the leadership transition to CHHS faculty and staff last week, Provost Matt Makley, Ph.D., thanked Szypulski for her service as dean and said the University will conduct a national search starting with the formation of a search committee next month.
“I am fully committed to working alongside you during this transition and to supporting the continued growth and success of the college,” Makley wrote in the announcement.
Retrum, a former president of the Council of Chairs, “brings a strong record of student-centered leadership, community engagement and applied scholarship” to the interim role, Makley noted.
Retrum’s appointment is effective immediately.
“As a seasoned educator, scholar and chair, she is well positioned to provide steady, thoughtful leadership and strong support for faculty, staff and students,” Makley said.
