Dear NSM Alumni and Friends,

After 18 incredible years I have decided to step down as dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. It was not an easy decision but I believe the time has come to pass the torch.

Together we have accomplished so much. The University of Houston is on the cusp of tier one status through the excellence and hard work of our college’s alumni, faculty and students. And as UH strives to become a world-class center of health and energy research, our NSM will continue to be instrumental in making UH an even greater university.

I’ve been with UH for more than 40 years, but never have I seen such promise, excitement and optimism. That is why I believed the time was right for a new generation of leadership at NSM. Over the years I have had the privilege to teach, mentor and work with so many students and faculty – their dedication to science and UH ensures that NSM’s best days are still ahead.

The decision to step down was not an easy one. The NSM community has become a truly special part of my life. From the bright students striving to be the scientists and innovators of tomorrow, to the outstanding professors with a passion for teaching and research and our successful alum whose enthusiasm for UH is contagious – these people inspire me everyday and I will miss being their dean.

The support, advice and friendship of NSM’s many dedicated alumni has made my job especially rewarding. I hope you will continue to stay involved as we transition and welcome a new dean.

John L. Bear
Dean