DeanWuBlog

Transition

I am pleased to report that Dean Designate Robert Ackerman and I have started the transition process. Dean Designate Ackerman is an experienced Dean, having served in that role a decade ago at a school on the West Coast.

We have already worked out a good division of responsibilities. We communicate constantly to ensure we are integrated in this process. As Dean, expected to remain through Commencement, I am continuing to fulfill all the responsibilities of the office, in particular with respect to day-to-day operations and this fiscal year. It is important to me personally that I continue to steward the Law School, as if I were to be here for many years to come – in my view, the principled course of action is to make decisions with the same sense of commitment. I’d like to hand over the keys to a Law School that is as strong as possible. As Dean Designate, Professor Ackerman is beginning to learn about the institution and the people. In addition, he is consulting on and making decisions as to matters affecting primarily next fiscal year and beyond. His input is invaluable on many of the choices we face now, and I’m pleased to commit to his judgment any that have lasting effect. I’ve indicated to everyone on the administrative team of the Law School that they should feel free to work directly with Dean Designate Ackerman, advising me of what is resolved, while also bearing in mind that like me he too has a day job. That is to say, he has graciously indicated to me he does not have an interest in micromanaging from 500 miles away before he has started.

I’m confident that our understanding will allow Dean Designate Robert Ackerman to have the best possible start to his tenure. I’m looking forward, at least as much as everyone else, to his arrival, and I wish him only the best.