After 10 years as dean of the School of Education, Julie Underwood announced Friday she will return to the school’s faculty come August.
During her tenure, Underwood led the $34 million renovation of the Education Building completed in 2010 and helped create the Madison Initiative for Undergraduates, according to a university statement. UW-Madison’s School of Education also recently ranked first among all public schools of education in U.S. News and World Report graduate school rankings under Underwood’s leadership.
"Julie has been a thoughtful and passionate force advocating for both the School of Education along with public education in Wisconsin and across the country," Chancellor Rebecca Blank said in the statement. "As one of our longest-serving deans, I thank her for her dedicated service to the university."
Underwood only relinquished her responsibilities as dean for a short seven-month period in 2009, when she held the role of UW-Madison’s interim provost, according to the release.
"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as dean of the School of Education for 10 years," Underwood said in the release, adding she will still maintain involvement in UW life. "During my time as dean I have been truly fortunate to work with so many people who are dedicated to improving lives and making the world a better place."
