Rob Tierney has decided to step down from the Deanship effective March 1st 2010 to assume the role as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Social Work, at the University of Sydney, Australia, March 1st 2010. Here is his message:

"As a new academic year begins, many changes are afoot that will be both challenging and rewarding. We have a new set of expectations for our programs and their management, at the same time as we adjust to a new budget framework and increased expectations to work together.  And, as you know, we will be addressing calls for new leadership from within our faculty and from outside."

"For some time, I have been contemplating my own transition from my role as UBC Dean of Education.  Over the summer I decided to step aside from my current position slightly earlier than I had originally planned and before my term expires. With some sadness and regret, I have decided to resign from the Deanship effective March 1, 2010,  after nearly 10 years in this role.  The Provost will begin immediately the process to recommend on a new Dean."

"This is a great Faculty and I have felt and continue to feel privileged to serve and be a part of our multifaceted efforts.  It has been an honor to work with all members of the Faculty and to experience the integrity, vision, commitment and talents that you display, whether on scholarly engagements, educational endeavors at undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate levels, or efforts on behalf of alumni, emeriti, and our partners within UBC, and across the province, Canada and the world."

"Thank you everyone."

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As an international scholar, Rob Tierney has authored books and articles on literacy education, educational assessment, teaching, and learning. His recent writing focuses on discussions of professionalism and meeting student needs in the current political climate of accountability and evidence-based practices. As a teacher educator, researcher, administrator, and former classroom teacher, Rob is very active in education initiatives throughout Canada, the Asia Pacific Region, and the US. Rob is also a Professor in the Department of Language and Literacy Education.