The following is a message from Laura Bloomberg about her recent announcement to step down as dean at the end of her current contract in June, 2021:
When I joined the Humphrey School 13 years ago, serving as the dean was not something I imagined would be in my future. And yet, with the encouragement of this remarkable School community, I was given the opportunity to lead. It is one of the greatest honors of my career.
Today, I announce that I have decided to step down at the end of my current contract in June, 2021. This decision has not been an easy one for me and comes only after much reflection. On a personal note, I feel a deep commitment to the work of the Humphrey School and the University of Minnesota. This great institution is in my DNA. Between my husband, myself, and our children we collectively hold a BA, an MD, and a PhD from this institution. We are a 3rd generation family of UMN alums.
As dean, I believe strongly that the Humphrey School has so much going for it at this point in our history, and this is why I think now is an appropriate time for a transition of leadership. We have world-renowned and highly respected faculty, deeply engaged and committed staff, an excellent national reputation among peer institutions, and an unparalleled level of alumni and community support. The Humphrey School is in an excellent position to launch a national search that will draw a broad and diverse pool of highly qualified candidates.
Over the course of the next few months, University of Minnesota Provost Rachel Croson will appoint a committee to lead a national search for the next dean. You can read the provost's message about the transition here
I hope you will join me in working with the provost to find a visionary leader with the capacity to build on the School’s successes, inspire innovation, deepen our commitment to justice, and move us ever closer to our mission of advancing the common good in a diverse and changing world.
As for me, I will always remain deeply committed to this School and to the University of Minnesota, as a faculty member, administrator, and alum. It has been a privilege to serve the Humphrey School as associate dean and dean for the past eight years. I am committed to ensuring a smooth leadership transition and supporting the process in every way possible so the School’s new leader is best positioned to guide us toward ever greater accomplishments.
In the meantime, the work of this academic year continues and I am totally on board for the ride. Please know that even as the search for my successor proceeds, both Associate Dean Catherine Squires and I remain fully focused on advancing our goals and supporting the engaged teaching, research and outreach priorities of the School.
Warmly,
Laura Bloomberg
