BGSU Firelands dean steps down

HURON TWP. — After eight years at the helm, BGSU Firelands' top official is stepping down. Dean Andy Kurtz will return to a "full-time faculty position," Bowling Green State University announced Friday afternoon in a news release. While officials search for a permanent leader, they named professor Ram Veerapaneni the interim dean. "A BGSU Firelands faculty member since 2012 with active research in harmful algal blooms, Veerapaneni currently serves as chair of the department of natural and social sciences and will continue in that role while serving as interim dean," the news release states. "In addition to teaching and research activities, Veerapaneni serves as faculty adviser for the campus' science and chess clubs." It's unclear why this leadership change is taking place. The Register sent clarifying questions seeking details to BGSU on Friday. "I would like to thank Dean Kurtz for his years of leadership, scholarship and community engagement at BGSU Firelands, and we wish him well as he transitions back to the faculty," said Joe B. Whitehead Jr., provost and senior vice president for Academic and Student Affairs at BGSU. "I am grateful that Dr. Veerapaneni has agreed to serve as interim dean while a national search is conducted for the next dean of BGSU Firelands. "We are committed to selecting a new dean who shares in our mission of supporting student success, teaching quality, research and creative activities that drive economic and cultural vitality in the region and beyond," Whitehead said. During his time leading BGSU Firelands, Kurtz oversaw multiple accomplishments and innovations, including: • Development of new academic programs, including the bachelor of science in respiratory care and the bachelor of science in resort and attraction management in collaboration with Cedar Fair • Construction of new academic facilities, including classroom and laboratory expansions to support the respiratory care, sonography and radiology programs • Development of the Clark Inclusive Scholars program, with support from David and Jacquie Clark, to provide educational and career preparation to students living with developmental disabilities • Investment in student access and affordability initiatives, including the launch of the Firelands Grant, a commitment to college affordability for students with financial need, and the securing of CCAMPIS grant funding, a multi-year federal grant to support students who are parents • Engagement in regional economic development efforts, including serving on the board of directors of the Erie County Economic Development Corporation and the Firelands Forward advisory board Kurtz will continue his role as president of the Erie County Economic Development Corporation and as chair of the Firelands Forward workforce development collaborative, according to the news release. "A new BGSU Firelands dean is expected to be named in early 2024," BGSU said. _ Reach reporter Caitlin Nearhood at nearhood@sanduskyregister.com and follow her on Twitter @CaitlinNearhood