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Trustees approve appointments, retirements

May 1, 2006

KALAMAZOO--The appointment of a top administrator and two professional development leaves were approved by the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees at its April 28 meeting. The board also signed off on the retirements of one faculty member and seven staff members as well as the resignations of two faculty members.

In addition to approving the previously announced appointment of Dr. Lewis R. Pyenson as dean of graduate studies, trustees approved professional development leaves for Stuart J. Dybek, professor of English, effective July 31, 2006, through April 8, 2007, and Dr. Paul Nwulu, assistant professor of communication, effective July 31, 2006, through July 29, 2007.

The faculty member who is retiring was granted emeriti status. Dr. Elaine A. Jayne, professor of University Libraries, will retire with 10 years of service to the University, effective April 30, 2006.

The staff members retiring, their positions, years of continuous service and effective dates of retirement are: Theoni Androutsopoulos, custodian in physical plant-building, custodial and support services, 27 years, effective June 30, 2006; Dr. Michael B. Atkins, senior advisor to the provost and vice president for academic affairs, one year appointment, effective June 30, 2006; Joyce D. Becker, utility food worker in the Bernhard Center Dining Food Service, 19-1/2 years, effective June 30, 2006; Doris A. Rey, office associate in the Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreations, 41 years, effective July 31, 2006; Jacquelyn Ruttinger, director of exhibitions in the School of Art, 20-1/2 years, effective June 30, 2006; Diane L. Stephenson, office coordinator in the Department of Biological Sciences, 41 years, effective July 31, 2006; and Judy K. Walters, ombuds assistant in the Office of University Ombuds, 23 years, effective June 30, 2006.

The faculty members resigning are: Dr. Becky M. Kirschner, assistant professor of teaching, learning and leadership, effective June 30, 2006, and Dr. Adam Sabra, assistant professor of history, effective April 29, 2006.

Media contact: Jeanne Baron, (269) 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu

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