A week after Ohio University’s Eastern Campus Dean Paul Bibbins announced his resignation, Executive Vice President and Provost Kathy Krendl appointed an interim to ease the transition.

Richard Greenlee, associate provost for Appalachian Access & Enrichment Programs, was named interim dean of the branch campus in St. Clairsville yesterday. The appointment came from Executive Vice President and Provost Kathy Krendl.

“We wanted to get someone into the position quickly,” said Linda Lockhart, writer and editor for Outreach & Regional Campuses in University Communications and Marketing, adding Greenlee was designated interim status for one year and would likely be a candidate for the permanent position if he is interested.

Greenlee has been with OU since 1990, previously as a faculty member and chair of the social work department. He is currently paid $66,632 and declined to say how much his salary was increased by the appointment.

Greenlee, a first-generation college student who grew up in eastern Ohio, said it was an honor to return home.

“I don’t think words can express how excited I am about this opportunity,” he said. He said he wasn’t sure if he was interested in the permanent position.

“I’m just grateful to have the one year,” he said.

This quarter, Greenlee is teaching three social work classes at OU and oversees the recruitment and mentoring of Appalachian Scholars. He said he will continue his work with Appalachian Access & Enrichment and cut back on his teaching.

“He’s shown such commitment to the university, such commitment to students, such commitment to access of
education,” said Sally Linder, university spokeswoman. “It makes him perfect choice for a regional campus located in this part of Ohio.”

Dan Evans, dean of Southern Campus and executive dean of Regional Campuses, said Greenlee understands the mission of branch campuses to make education accessible, and he has been a strong advocate of the regional campuses.

“I’m hoping it will be a transition that will be easy for him. I know that he is anxious to start,” Evans said, adding that he wasn’t sure how Greenlee’s appointment would affect work in his Appalachian Access & Enrichment position.

Greenlee will take office Jan. 1 and work in transition until Bibbins’ resignation takes effect Dec. 31.