Although I am just a week into my position as Provost at the University of Houston, I have quickly learned through my conversations with both internal and external constituents around the country about the outstanding work that is going on in the Graduate College of Social Work and the high regard that the college holds in the social work community. 

I realize that there are many concerns within the GCSW community about the future direction and leadership of the college, and I want to provide you with several important updates.

First, I would like to thank you for your engagement in the meetings with Interim Dean candidate Jonathan Schwartz, who has since withdrawn from consideration for the position. Currently, I am actively considering several options for an Interim Dean of GCSW while also recognizing that you are continuing to move forward under the strong leadership of Associate Deans Sarah Narendorf, Suzanne Pritzker and Samira Ali. Once an Interim Dean is in place, the timeline for initiating a search for a permanent Dean for the college will be developed. 

I will also identify a mediator to facilitate conversations within the college to help its stakeholders reach a sense of shared mission and collegiality going forward.

I will be in communication with you in the weeks ahead to update you on next steps for the college. I thank you for your collective efforts on behalf of the GCSW and look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,

Diane Z. Chase
Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, University of Houston