Karen Gould, PhD, is new interim dean of graduate studies

Karen Gould, PhD, has been named interim dean of UNMC Graduate Studies, effective June 1.

UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, who led graduate studies for more than a decade, announced the appointment on May 30.

Kendra Schmid, PhD, who had been serving as the interim dean, joined the University of Nebraska Provost’s Office in a part-time role as interim vice provost in September, and is increasing her time in that role, also effective June 1.

“I’d like to congratulate Dr. Gould on her promotion to interim dean of UNMC Graduate Studies,” Dr. Davies said. “Dr. Gould has played an important role in our students’ success and has been a strong voice for educational programs and faculty development. I am excited that she will be leading our graduate programs and look forward to seeing her continue to lead the college on its upward trajectory. I’d also like to thank Dr. Schmid for her work in fostering an environment of innovation, collaboration and academic excellence.”

Dr. Gould had been serving as interim executive associate dean of graduate studies and interim assistant vice chancellor for academic affairs. Prior to those roles, she served as assistant dean for graduate student success and campuswide director of assessment since 2022. She also is deputy research integrity officer. She is a professor and vice chair for faculty development in the UNMC Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy.

“I’m honored to serve the UNMC graduate students and graduate faculty in this new role and to build on the incredible successes in Graduate Studies achieved under the leadership of Dr. Schmid and Dr. Davies before her,” Dr. Gould said. “I’m committed to providing stability and support for our students in these uncertain times and to ensuring that our students can succeed at UNMC and beyond.”

Before assuming her interim roles, Dr. Schmid had been assistant vice chancellor for academic affairs since 2020. She was named executive associate dean of graduate studies in 2022. She also is a professor in the UNMC Department of Biostatistics, where she served as interim chair, and she is UNMC’s academic liaison to the Higher Learning Commission. Dr. Schmid is retaining her role as interim associate vice chancellor of academic affairs and her faculty position in the Department of Biostatistics.

“Serving in multiple roles of graduate studies has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” Dr. Schmid said. “It has been a privilege to work alongside Dr. Gould. She is a dedicated and accomplished leader whose insight, collaborative spirit, and commitment to students and academic excellence make her the best choice to fill this role. I look forward to supporting Dr. Gould as she continues to advance our mission and graduate student success at UNMC.”

Information about additional appointments or opportunities in leadership roles in academic affairs and graduate studies will be forthcoming.