New roles on campus

Four leadership promotions have been announced by the University recently.

Dr. Todd Patten was named associate dean of the Cannon-Clary College of Education effective Aug. 1. This position previously was held by Dr. Clara Carroll, who retired this spring. Patten also serves as chair of the department of mental health and wellness. He has been working at the University since 2004 and served as the inaugural dean for student success from 2012-15.

Dr. Justin Bland was appointed chair of the department of exercise and sport sciences on Feb. 24. This position previously was held by Dr. Ken Turley who was named director of the new Master of Science in cardiac function and interventional technology program. Bland joined the University faculty within the exercise and sport sciences department in 2011 and is currently serving as an associate professor.

Dr. Jesse Robertson was named associate dean of the College of Bible and Ministry on May 3. Robertson has taught for six years in the college and completed his first year as assistant dean for church connections in May. Robertson fills the role previously held by Dr. Daniel Stockstill, who retired this spring.

Dr. Dan Atchley was appointed dean of the College of Pharmacy June 1. This position was previously held by Dr. Jeff Mercer. Atchley has been working at the University since 2021, serving as dean for faculty affairs and chair of pharmaceutical sciences. Prior to this he served as assistant dean for preclinical medicine and chair of microbiology, immunology and pharmacology at Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine.