UofL’s second longest-serving dean, Clover will participate in the search process for a new dean and remain in the post until it is filled. He then plans to take a year of administrative leave before returning to the university where he hopes to work with the new SPHIS leadership on future projects.
“I have greatly enjoyed my tenure as dean and thank the faculty, staff and students for sharing this journey with me,” Clover said. “Together we celebrate 10 years of success.”
Before he leaves the post, Clover said that he has two goals: “receiving approval of our new public health undergraduate program and ensuring the school is reaccredited.”
Clover started his UofL career in 1995, serving as the family medicine chair in the School of Medicine. He soon felt compelled to address the health concerns of Kentuckians from a public health standpoint and began the process of creating a new school.
“I thank Dean Clover for his leadership. He’s done an amazing job of beginning a new school and securing accreditation,” said Provost Shirley Willihnganz.
Executive Vice President for Health Affairs David L. Dunn agreed.
“We commend Dr. Clover for making his dream a reality – starting a new school is no easy endeavor. I look forward to the school’s continued success as we search for a new dean who will help SPHIS reach its full growth potential,” he said.
Since its inception, SPHIS boasts more than $32 million in research grant funding with more than 50 peer-reviewed publications a year. In addition to its research activities, the school has developed and implemented 10 academic degree programs, created a service component that ranges from the Gray Street Farmers’ Market to faculty service on National Institutes of Health review panels and to international initiatives with Ghana and China.