ECU Social Work Dean moves to Academic Affairs

Gary R. Lowe is leaving his position as dean of the School of Social Work and Criminal Justice Studies to become the interim associate vice chancellor for academic affairs in charge of administration and special programs.

He replaces Henry Peel who is returning to full-time teaching duties in the School of Education. Dr. Peel was recently named as the Wachovia Bank and Trust Distinguished Professor in the Department of Education Leadership. The appointment of Dr. Lowe was announced recently by Vice Chancellor – Academic Affairs Richard Ringeisen. The change is effective Nov. 1 .

Ringeisen also announced the appointment of Dr. Linner W. Griffin to serve as the interim dean of the School of Social Work and Criminal Justice during the search for Lowe’s successor.

In commenting on his appointments, Ringeisen said, “Dr. Lowe is a most capable organizer and administrator and has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to ECU and to the issues we face now and in the years ahead.”

“He has shown a willingness to shoulder university responsibilities outside his own school, and has always done those things well and with a carefulness which would belie their being ‘secondary’ jobs for him.

I’m delighted to have him join my administrative staff,” he said. Lowe will work closely with the vice chancellor in handling administrative task and will be involved in policy development. He will supervise the registrar and the directors of admissions, International Affairs and the Honors Program, and he will chair the Enrollment Services Council. Griffin is a veteran member of the social work faculty, is an associate professor and chairs the school’s graduate program in social work. Her appointment is effective Nov. 1.

“She is a highly respected member of our faculty and is an ideal choice for leading the School of Social Work and Criminal Justice through this time of transition,” Ringeisen said.