University of Michigan names business, nursing deans

The University of Michigan Board of Regents hired new leaders for the schools of business and nursing Thursday.

During a meeting in Grand Rapids, the regents appointed D. Scott DeRue as Edward J. Frey dean of the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, effective July 1, and Patricia Hurn dean of the University of Michigan School of Nursing, effective Aug. 1. Both received five-year contracts.

DeRue is UM’s Gilbert and Ruth Whitaker professor of business administration, associate dean for executive education, and professor of management and organizations at the Ross School. He replaces Alison Davis-Blake, who is stepping down after five years as dean to return to teaching.

“In my nine years at Ross, I have come to cherish our commitment to excellence and community of students, alumni, faculty, staff and corporate partners,” DeRue said in a statement. “I am excited about the future and look forward to working with our community to build on our success and propel Michigan Ross into the future.”

Hurn is vice chancellor for research and innovation and executive officer of the University of Texas System. She replaces Kathleen Potempa, who is stepping down after 10 years as dean.

“I am greatly anticipating the opportunity to move this already outstanding school of nursing toward even greater scholarship, leadership in health care delivery and innovation in education,” Hurn said in a statement.