June 29, 2018

Dear Colleagues,

We want to share with you that George Watson has made the decision to step down from his position as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences to return to the faculty, effective Sept. 1.

As a former Unidel Professor of Physics and Astronomy and recognized international leader in the development of problem-based learning, as well as a strong advocate for improved science education at the high school and college level, George has been an integral part of the UD community for more than three decades. He joined the college’s administration in 2001 as associate dean, and served as interim dean in 2009-10 prior to being named to the permanent role in 2010.

Highlights of George’s leadership and contributions to the College of Arts and Sciences include: establishing a $1 million annual commitment to develop robust new initiatives to cultivate a more diverse environment of inclusive excellence; founding the Dean’s Advisory and Student Councils to engage alumni, friends, academic leaders and students in shaping the strategic direction of the college; supporting the creation of innovative, interdisciplinary educational facilities and initiatives, including the integrated science teaching initiative in the ISE Lab, the Center for Biomedical and Brain Imaging, the Mathematical Sciences Learning Laboratory, the Interdisciplinary Humanities Research Center and the Biden Institute; strengthening local and global partnerships and opportunities for professional exchange in the arts and humanities; and expanding and developing strong professional teams in academic services, communications, IT and finance to support the academic and administrative growth of the college.

We are all very grateful to George for his many years of strong, dedicated leadership and commitment to the students, faculty and staff of the College of Arts and Sciences and the entire University. We know you will join all of us in wishing him continued success as he begins this next chapter of his career.

A national search will be conducted for a new dean to lead the College of Arts and Sciences. We expect to announce the interim dean shortly.

Sincerely,

Dennis Assanis President	Robin Morgan Provost