By Melany Miller
Utah Valley State College hires a BYU professor as the new dean of the School of Science and Health beginning July 1.
Dr. Sam Rushforth will oversee the departments of biology, community health, dental hygiene, mathematics, nursing, physical education and recreation and physical science at UVSC.
“UVSC has proven to be an important academic voice in Utah. I am pleased to become a part of UVSC’s ongoing dedication to academic excellence and diversity,” Rushforth said.
Rushforth has taught at BYU since 1970 and has been a professor of botany since 1981. He has received several national and international awards including the United Nations Environment Programme 500 Award in 1991 and BYU Honors Professor of the Year in 1993.
Bruce Roundy, BYU botany department chair, said Rushforth is dedicated to improving the environment for all of us.
“We’ll miss his stimulating thinking, creativity and enthusiasm as a department member,” Roundy said.
Dr. Lucile Stoddard, vice president for Academic Affairs at UVSC said the appointment of Dr. Rushforth is a timely and important one.
“Dr. Rushforth is recognized nationally and internationally as a superb scholar. Additionally, he has a history that reflects sensitivity to faculty and academic needs,” Stoddard said.
Rushforth will replace Dr. Jim Harris who will be returning to teaching as a full-time UVSC faculty member.
