DeKALB ― Lynda Ransdell, the dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences has chosen to step down from her position. The decision will come into effect June 30 and Ransdell will be leading the college until then, according to Joe King, spokesperson for NIU. 

Ransdell was named dean of the college last June, when she took over for interim dean Beverly Henry, according to a College of Health and Human Sciences June 21 news release.  

Ransdell had also previously worked as a dean at other academic institutions, according to a Montana State University Oct. 8, 2012 news release.  

“My decision to leave NIU is based upon my desire to get back into the field of kinesiology after serving in a dean’s office for over eight years,” Ransdell said. “I am going back to Boise State University, a place where I spent the majority of my career and have known many of the faculty for almost 20 years.”

The university will begin searching to fill the position. 

“This senior leadership position is critical to the success of the university and the expertise of a search firm will be utilized to ensure the most qualified and diverse pool,” according to the Board of Trustees special meeting report.  

“It was announced that Dr. Beverly Henry, who has been at NIU for two decades, will be taking over as Interim Dean in the College of Health and Human Sciences,” Ransdell said. 

Henry’s title at the college names her the interim associate dean, however, it is not clear whether she will be taking over at this time. 

As dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences, Randsell was involved in the planning of the Health and Informatics Technology Center that will be built on campus in the coming years. 

Despite Ransdell’s vested interest in the project, the planning process will not be delayed. 

“The project planning will continue as planned,” Ransdell said. “It is in great hands with the current group of individuals who are leading the planning process.”

Ransdell has spent just under a year overseeing the College of Health and Human Sciences.

 “This was a difficult decision because I have absolutely loved my time at NIU, and I have been impressed with the Huskie spirit around campus,” Ransdell said.