HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — The dean of Marshall University’s Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine will step down from his position in June.
Dr. Joseph Shapiro announced Wednesday that June 30 will be his final day. He will take a tenured faculty position at the institution.
“I have been honored to direct the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine this past decade, and I am very proud of what we have accomplished during that time. However, 10 years is a long time to lead a medical school,” Shapiro said in a statement.
Shapiro became dean in March 2012 following the Liaison Committee on Medical Education’s decision to remove the school from probation. Under his leadership, grant awards have more than tripled and the school has started new academic programs.
“Joe is a dear friend and cherished colleague. I remain eternally grateful for the magnitude of contributions he has made to our institution and the science he has led over these many years, and I wish him the best as he looks toward his next chapter,” University President Brad Smith said.
According to Smith, a national campaign will take place to find Shapiro’s successor. Dr. Bobby Miller, the vice dean of medical education, will serve as interim dean beginning July 1.