VCU news

By Anne Buckley

Virginia Commonwealth University announced the appointment of J. Charles Jennett, Ph.D., as interim dean of the VCU School of Engineering, effective Sept. 15, 2011.

Jennett is president emeritus of Texas A&M International University and a member of the Board of Directors of Chicago Bridge and Iron Co., one of the world’s leading engineering, procurement and construction companies and a major process technology licensor.

“Dr. Jennett brings a wealth of experience in higher education administration, including service as a university president, provost and dean,” said Beverly Warren, Ed.D., Ph.D., provost and vice president for academic affairs. “As a former dean of a school of engineering, Dr. Jennett has a keen understanding of academic programs and accreditation standards. He will be a strong asset to our leadership team while we search for a permanent dean to the School of Engineering.”

Prior to his appointment as president of Texas A&M International, Jennett served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Clemson University for four years and as dean of Clemson's College of Engineering for the previous 11 years.

Jennett received his bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering from Southern Methodist University and his doctorate from the University of New Mexico.

Russell Jamison, Ph.D., who has served as dean since 2006, is stepping down from the dean's position effective Sept. 15. He will return to the faculty as a full professor with a joint appointment in the departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical and Life Sciences Engineering.