Eastern Virginia Medical School has started planning for its next era of leadership, a process that will see Dean and Provost Gerald J. Pepe, PhD, transition to full-time oversight of the school's research enterprise.

Since early 2009, the school has been crafting a strategic plan to guide its course for the next several years. Part of that process involves a succession plan that allows the school to capitalize on leadership opportunities while continuing to focus on its strategic goals.

Dr. Pepe has created such an opportunity with his decision to move into a new role at the helm of the effort to build a more robust research program, a key priority throughout his six years as dean. His new title, the timing of the transition and other related details will be part of the succession-planning process, which also will involve the Board of Visitors and others from both inside and outside the institution.