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.

Dr. Pepe will remain as dean until a successor is named.

"I'm proud of the really outstanding growth EVMS has experienced during my time as dean. Now, I have the opportunity to build up our research programs and infrastructure and spend the upcoming years of my career focusing on one of my passions - research," Dr. Pepe said. "My decision also gives us the chance to look strategically at the school's administration and make sure we keep heading in the right direction."

"Dr. Pepe has been a strong partner throughout my time at EVMS," said EVMS President Harry T. Lester. "He's a committed leader and a top-notch scientist. Dr. Pepe has been NIH funded for over 30 years. That's the gold standard. I can't think of anyone better to take research at EVMS to the next level."