UPDATED: Wilson steps down from dean of College of Arts and Sciences

Updated at 6:50 p.m. Sept. 16:

Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences David Wilson sent an email to faculty members of the college late Wednesday afternoon, addressing the news of his resignation.

“As you probably know, it was announced today that I will be taking a sabbatical for the remainder of this academic year, with the expectation that I will return next year as dean emeritus, philosophy professor and senior advisor for external affairs,” Wilson said in the email.

Webster posted a press release on Sept. 16 announcing Wilson had stepped down and was on sabbatical, effective immediately. The release said Wilson would spend the year focusing on writing two books.

In his email, Wilson said collaborating with faculty has been an awarding experience. He cited developing programs, planning buildings, hiring new faculty and raising money as results that came from working with the college’s faculty.
“My greatest joy during my 13 years as dean has been collaborating with you, the faculty, in finding ways to more effectively prepare our students for global citizenship and individual excellence,” Wilson said.

“I was part of the search committee that brought David Wilson to campus and he served the university well in his position of dean,“ Williams said. “He deserves this sabbatical.”