I write to share that, after more than seven years of leadership and service, Don Pope-Davis will step down as dean of the College of Education and Human Ecology (EHE) on December 31, 2025.
His tenure as dean has been marked by ambitious goals and achievements. For example, Dean Pope-Davis has led several important initiatives that have benefited EHE, including envisioning the renovation of historic Campbell Hall. This facility will provide state-of-the-art research and teaching spaces for the college when its phased opening begins next year.
Dr. Pope-Davis ushered in fundraising success for the college, raising more than $90 million in funding during his tenure as dean. This legacy of fundraising will continue to shape the college’s future, providing support for student scholarships and enriching academic programs.
He also has been committed to faculty innovation, having invested in faculty research through the Big Idea Seed Grant Program, which promoted interdisciplinary collaboration. The college also saw an increase in its external research support, and many of its programs continue to be highly ranked. Beyond campus, he served as a leader for several national organizations, including as president of the Council of Academic Deans from Research Education Institutions.
Dr. Pope-Davis has also strengthened the college’s outreach efforts, which have engaged school districts, community leaders and a growing number of international partners. He introduced new programs to strengthen ties with the greater Columbus community, and he launched initiatives including the EHE Lecture Series, partnerships with local nonprofits and industries, and community programs in early childhood education, the arts, reading and math support.
Building off these initiatives, beginning in January, he will lead the development of a proposed statewide initiative to advance education and psychological sciences for K-12 students. This program will concentrate on community engagement and workforce development in urban and rural communities.
In the coming weeks and months, I will seek input from the college’s faculty, staff and students on interim leadership while we begin a national search for the next dean of the college.
In the meantime, I invite you to please join me in thanking Dr. Pope-Davis for his dedication to Ohio State.
Ravi V. Bellamkonda
Executive Vice President and Provost