Ehringhaus, who has been with the University for 32 years and served under six chancellors, will begin her new position Jan. 1, 2003, serving a special joint assignment with the Association of American Medical Colleges and the Association of American Universities, based out of Washington, D.C.
Law Professor Glenn George will serve as interim vice chancellor and general counsel after Ehringhaus' departure. Chancellor James Moeser will appoint a search committee to fill the position permanently.
In her new position, Ehringhaus will examine ethical ways to conduct research and ensure that research on human subjects follows all appropriate rules and standards.
"These are issues that are important to universities in general and to this University specifically," she said.
Ehringhaus will return to the University as a professor in the School of Law beginning in fall 2003 and said she hopes to continue contributing to UNC from her new position.
She said she is looking forward to writing and returning to teaching full-time. "When you've been in position like this as long as I have, it's time to stand back and reflect and open a new chapter," she said.
Teaching has been the most rewarding part of her job, Ehringhaus said. "I've taught one course in the spring of every year, and I've absolutely adored it."
Provost Robert Shelton said that this is a great opportunity for Ehringhaus and that her expertise on issues such as research compliance has put the University on the map.
"Whenever you lose someone of her caliber, you have a gap," Shelton said.
