Dr. Frank S. Black, longtime administrator and education professor at UTM, has been named interim dean for the university’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences.

His appointment follows the resignation of Dr. B.C. DeSpain, who was named president of Life University in Atlanta.

Black previously served as UTM vice chancellor for academic affairs from 1988-1994. He resigned in August 1994 to accept a teaching position in the university’s department of educational studies.

Then in September 2000, he was named interim vice chancellor for academic affairs following the reassignment of Dr. Christopher Chalokwu. Black continued in that position until spring 2002 when he again returned to teaching.

In announcing the appointment, Dr. Tom Rakes, vice chancellor for academic affairs, pointed to Black’s “working knowledge of and experience involving the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) accreditation process” as a major factor in Black’s selection.

The university’s teacher education program is up for NCATE review next year. “Dr. Black has a background of senior-level administrative experience, including several different accreditation processes.” Rakes said. “I am pleased he has accepted the appointment.”

UTM Chancellor Nick Dunagan, who has worked with Black for many years, said Black is the right person to fill the interim position.

“Frank Black has served the university well, both in the classroom and as an administrator,” Dunagan said. “He’s stepping forward to lead the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences during an important time and I have every confidence in his ability to move the college ahead,” replied Dunagan.

Black said he looks forward to the challenge of leading the college through a critical period. “Mid-year leadership changes are demanding on organizations any way one looks at it,” Black said. “I am energized by this leadership opportunity, because it is another chance and another way for me to help advance the university and the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences in particular,”added Black.

Rakes said a national search will begin this spring semester to fill the dean’s position permanently.