Howard College of Arts and Sciences dean David Chapman will step down at the end of the 2015-2016 academic year, Samford announced Sept. 11. Following a sabbatical in the spring semester, Chapman will continue teaching as professor of English and will have a role in college administration as director of the John Howard Scholars.

Chapman’s tenure as dean has been marked by the opening of Propst Hall, the renovation of Russell Hall and several other capital projects. He also worked extensively on the development of new approaches to teaching, such as writing-across-the-curriculum, problem-based learning and community outreach programs, including the Samford-in-Mission program, the Old Howard 100 Bike Ride, and the Davis Lecture Series. The college saw increases in grant funding, undergraduate research, service learning, and internship opportunities during his time of service.

“David and Bonnie Chapman have been firmly committed to Samford in so many ways for 25 years, and we are pleased that they will continue to be part of our community,” said J. Michael Hardin, Samford Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Hardin, who will serve as interim dean of the college in the spring semester, praised Chapman for his commitment to the goals of a liberal arts education and announced the creation of a committee to select his successor from a national pool of candidates.