UMBC is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. William LaCourse as Dean of the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences (CNMS) beginning July 1st, 2012, according a press release by Provost Designate and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Philip Rous. Holding a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry obtained at Northeastern University in 1987, Dr. LaCourse had been serving as Interim Dean since August of last year, and had previously served as Acting Dean, as well.

He had previously served as Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, as well as Scientist at the Ames Laboratory of Iowa State University before joining UMBC in 1992. Dr. LaCourse was also crucial in the creation of the Chemistry Discovery Center, which was a model for the CNMS Active Science Teaching and Learning Environment (CASTLE) program at the university, which has in turn served as a model for other universities in the nation.

According to the release, Dr. LaCourse’s responsibilities will include “the strategic advancement of the College’s research and educational mission; the long-term financial stability of the college; and strategic budgeting and planning to strengthen the faculty, improve student success at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and support and enhance research activity,” among others.

Congratulations to Dr. LaCourse on his past, present, and future success with CNMS.