LAWRENCE, Kan. ― The embattled dean of the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare is resigning to return to the faculty.
Paul Smokowski says he is resigning because of declining finances for the program and his desire to do more research.
The Lawrence Journal-World reports student protesters have demanded Somokowski’s resignation, citing inequities within the school effecting students of color. He said the school is working hard on social equality issues and he hopes his resignation will make that process easier.
His resignation will take effect July 1 but until then he will relinquish his duties as dean to focus on special research initiatives. Stephen Kapp, social welfare professor and associate dean of academic programs, will be acting dean for the remainder of the academic year.
