Mississippi State University’s longtime sociology professor has been named the new dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
The university announced last week that Greg Dunaway was elected to the new position.
Prior to becoming dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dunaway was head of the Department of Sociology and served as the interim dean.
Hannah Humphrey, senior English and foreign language major, said Dunaway will fit in easily and it will be a great transition for him.
“I think he will fit in really well because he already knows the position coming from interim, and he knows the students,” Humphrey said.
 Even though Dunaway has been selected, the search for the new dean was not an easy one. 
Kristen Moore, senior mathematics major, said a search committee of 30 representatives from the College of Arts and Sciences read every letter and application submitted by each candidate.
“The process took a few months,” Moore said.  “The committee discussed what we were looking for in a dean and created a job description and posted the opening online.”
Moore said Dunaway’s enthusiasm stood out the most in the process of selecting him.
“Dr. Dunaway is enthusiastic about MSU.  He is excited to progress the College of Arts and Sciences,” Moore said.
According to a news release, Dunaway’s initiation will officially take place on May 17.
Jerome Gilbert, provost and executive vice president, said in an email interview he feels the university made the right decision in choosing Dunaway.
“I definitely think we chose the right person,” Gilbert said.  “He knows and appreciates the broad mission of Arts and Sciences and a great set of personal values and ethics in making decisions for the College.”