Leadership Announcement – College of Nursing

Dear colleagues,

Dean Brian Ahn will step down from his position as dean of the College of Nursing, effective June 9. He has accepted a new position at the College of Nursing at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

Since he took on this role in 2023, Dean Ahn has been dedicated to advancing college priorities, and his contributions have made a lasting difference for the university and our community. He has helped raise the national profile of the college, expand research activity and increase enrollment during his service. 

Over the coming weeks, we will appoint an interim dean to lead the college and continue to move important work forward ahead of the next academic year, while we prepare to launch a national search for a permanent replacement.

I encourage qualified academic leaders to apply for this interim role or nominate colleagues to lead the college during this period of transition. I welcome nominations of senior faculty members who have a strong understanding of the college’s mission and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in research, teaching and service.

Nominations, including self-nominations, should be submitted directly to me by Friday, May 22. Submissions should include a brief statement of interest (1-2 pages) and details on relevant experience.

I will convene a faculty and staff advisory committee to review nominations and provide a recommendation and will consult with key campus partners before making the interim appointment.

More information about the national search for the permanent dean, including opportunities for campus engagement in the process, will be shared soon.

Sincerely,

Patricia A. Prelock
Provost and Chief Academic Officer

This email was sent to sent to all faculty, staff and DCCs in the College of Nursing; university senior leaders and Provost Integrated Leadership Team.