MUNCIE, Ind. - Judith B. Roepke, dean of the School of Continuing Education and Public Service and professor of family and consumer sciences, retires at the end of June after nearly three decades of service with Ball State University.

Roepke, who began her career at Ball State as part-time instructor of home economics in 1972, has held many positions at the university including professor of home economics, director of the Dietetic Assistant Program and Nutrition Counseling Center, associate dean of the College of Applied Sciences and Technology and associate provost. She was named dean in 1991.

"This is just a really good time in my life to retire," Roepke said. "I'm still able to do all the things I enjoy...and, on a different note, I think it's wise to recognize when perhaps new perspectives and fresh ideas are needed. The School of Continuing Education and Public Service has such an exciting future."

Roepke's anticipation for a successful future is largely grounded in the school's past accomplishments--one which she has been intricately involved with as a leader of off-campus and distance education enrollment, community relations and the importance of increased technology use, according to colleagues.

In addition to her leadership as dean, Roepke, a registered and certified dietitian named "Honor Dietitian of the Year" by the Indiana Dietetic Association at the annual meeting this spring, is known nationally for her expertise in nutrition during pregnancy and lactation.

Her professional affiliations and appointments include: The American Dietetic Association; La Leche League International; Indiana Perinatal Network; Delaware County HMHB Coalition; and chair of both the Delaware County Board of Health and International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. Roepke has also been a board member of Cardinal Health Systems Home Care Incorporated since 1978.

"Ball State has been such an exciting and positive part of my life," she said. "I've had incredible opportunities to pursue and lead a wide range of initiatives in both dietetics and continuing education and public service. It's been amazing to see all the progress we've made in both."

Roepke stresses retirement will not necessarily equal relaxation for her. She will continue to give talks in her area of expertise, including a nine-city tour in 2001. This year alone Roepke has 11 trips planned between May and November.

Despite keeping busy, Roepke says she'll miss Ball State-- particularly the interaction with students, teaching and various relationships she's formed with colleagues across campus.

Roepke's retirement is effective June 30. A retirement party will be held the same day at the Alumni Center from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. and is open to the public.

By Kristi Brenock, Communications Manager

(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, please contact Judith Roepke at (765) 285-1582.)