One interim dean replaced another Friday as the search for a permanent leader in the college of engineering continues.
The university began a nationwide search for a replacement dean when A. Wayne Bennett, the head of the college for eight years, retired in June.
“The dean is the chief executive office of a college and is responsible for academic and research programs in that college,” former Interim Dean Robert Taylor said.
Mechanical engineering professor Glenn Steele replaced Taylor as interim dean of the college Friday.
There will be no formal ceremony or announcement party for the swap. The switch will take place smoothly and without scene, Taylor said.
Taylor will teach at the University of Alabama, where he was hired as a professor of mechanical engineering. “I’m retiring from MSU,” he said. Taylor will serve as the associate dean of the college through October.
Provost Peter Rabideau said the university hopes to find someone to fill the position permanently by January.
Glenn Steele graduated from MSU in 1968 and has served on the faculty since 1979.
“The Provost approached me about serving the college in the interim status. I had done it before for the ’95-’96 school year so I had experience and I was willing to serve again,” he said.
“Steel is a senior member of the college and a full professor. He served as interim dean a few years ago and did a fine job,” Rabideau said.
The dean can set priorities and directions for a college and make sure everything is carried out within budget.
The management within the college also reports to the dean, Rabideau said.
“Dr. Steele is an experienced administrator,” Taylor said. “He’s been head of mechanical engineering for years.”
Taylor said that the transition is going smoothly. “All the work is getting done and all the issues needing tending are being tended to,” he said.
“I’m pleased to be able to serve the college,” Steele said. “I’m very committed to the Mississippi State University College of Engineering and I’m willing to serve as the interim dean.”