Christopher Clemens is stepping down as Provost effective May 16, Chancellor Lee Roberts announced in an email to the UNC community on Thursday.
Clemens, who has served as provost since 2021, will resume his prior position as the Jaroslav Folda Distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy in the College of Arts and Sciences.
“An astrophysicist to the core, I know Chris is excited to return to our faculty,” Roberts wrote. “He is an invaluable advisor and friend to me, and I look forward to his continued excellence in teaching, research and leadership.”
Roberts called the change “bittersweet.”
As provost, Clemens helped to create the controversial School of Civic Life and Leadership. He also aided in establishing the School of Data Science and the Provost’s AI committee.
Jim Dean will serve as interim provost. Dean, who was appointed by Roberts, previously served as UNC’s provost from 2013 to 2017. He is also the former dean of UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School and former president of the University of New Hampshire.
Dean will begin his term on May 17, as the University begins a national search to permanently replace Clemens.
