Lundquist College of Business Dean Kees de Kluyver has announced that he will step down on September 15 to pursue research and teaching at the college.
During de Kluyver's tenure, the business school expanded its MBA program, created the new Sports Product Management program, broke ground on a new Portland location, saw student and faculty numbers grow, made experiential learning a signature feature, and bolstered its national reputation.
“I thank Dean de Kluyver for his leadership during this time," interim UO President Scott Coltrane wrote in a letter to campus.
In a letter to faculty, staff, and supporters, de Kluyver said the arrival of a new president makes this the right time for a change of leadership at the college. The school is in good shape and ready for growth, and a new dean with a vision for the long term will help it achieve its potential, de Kluyver said.
“The time is right for a new leader to take on these distinct opportunities," he wrote. "For the first time in a long time our faculty is growing once again; enrollment in all programs is strong; our graduates are finding great jobs; the quality of our applicant pools is increasing; preparations for AACSB re-accreditation are well underway; and fundraising is going strong."
De Kluyver added "I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of faculty and staff for their hard work, collegiality, and creative energy. Special thanks go to our senior associate, associate, and assistant deans for their dedication. Without them, the college simply could not function. I am particularly indebted to our Board of Advisors, so ably led by Gwen Lillis. Without their enthusiasm, dedication, and support we would not be where we are today. Finally, a heartfelt thank you goes to all of our donors who continue to believe in our aspirations and challenge us to do better every day."
De Kluyver, who also holds a faculty position as James and Shirley Rippey Distinguished Professor, plans to spend the 2015-16 academic year engaged in research. Following that, he will return to the faculty part time under a tenure reduction program.
UPDATE: On June 19 the University of Oregon named James Terborg as interim dean of the Lundquist College. Terborg will begin in his new position on September 16, 2015.