The search will begin at the start of fall semester 2002. Meanwhile, an interim dean has been named.

"I am please to report that Associate Dean Don Van Meter has agreed to accept the appointment to be interim dean of the college, effective July 1," Provost Warren Vander Hill said. "As some of you know, Don served very well as interim dean once before and, I am certain, will provide the college with fine leadership for the next year."

Ronald Johnstone, who has served as dean of the college since 1992, is retiring at the end of June.

Van Meter, who joined Ball State in 1969, is current associate dean of the college and professor of natural resources and environmental management.

"I am looking forward to working with the existing dean's office staff, department chairs and faculty to provide excellent learning opportunities for our students and an academic environment that nurtures scholarship and fosters collegiality," Van Meter said.

According to Vander Hill, Don Christian of the University of Montana was offered the position but decided to remain in Montana.

"Like many of you, I am sorry that Dr. Christian declined my offer, so I have decided to continue the search," Vander Hill said.