NEOUCOM dean and president will leave posts

Dr. Nora suggests her job be split into two separate positions.

STAFF REPORT

ROOTSTOWN — Dr. Lois Margaret Nora, president and College of Medicine dean at Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy, will leave her posts at the end of 2009.

Dr. Nora said Monday that she will not extend her contract beyond Dec. 31, 2009.

She’s leaving with some recommendations for significant changes in the NEOUCOM leadership structure, suggesting to the board of trustees that the jobs of president and dean be split into two positions.

Further, she proposed that the search for the next president begin quickly, and, once that person is selected, one of his or her first activities should be to hire a new dean of medicine.

“These actions will prepare the Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy for the next decade of success,” Dr. Nora said. “As we continue to grow and expand, I must consider the present and future needs of NEOUCOM. I believe this is the best move at the best time.”

She is leaving with some mixed emotions.

“We have really grown over the past six years. I really love the place,” she told The Vindicator, but she said she realizes that, within a year, the positions of president and dean will be two jobs.

“Which job do I stay in?” she asked rhetorically, adding that she believes what is best for the school is to split the posts and bring in new people to fill them.

During Dr. Nora’s tenure, NEOUCOM has had significant growth, including the addition of the College of Pharmacy, broadening of the research base and focus, adding Cleveland State University to the B.S./M.D. program, doubling the size of the campus, improving the colleges’ financial health and business practices and increasing public and private support for the institution.

“For the past six years, we have had the good fortune to be led by a remarkable visionary in health professions education,” said Steven P. Cress, NEOUCOM Board chairman. “Dr. Nora’s qualities have, and will continue to serve NEOUCOM well as we plan ambitiously for the assured bright future ahead.”

Dr. Nora believes that future should include a look at public dental education and the expansion of research programs.

The Youngstown area remains important to NEOUCOM and the colleges will retain strong links with the medical community there, she said.

Dr. Nora received her medical degree from Rush Medical College, a law degree from the University of Chicago and an MBA from the University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business and Economics. She serves as vice chairwoman of the Inter-University Council, a member of the Executive Council of the Association of American Medical Colleges, a member of the Council of Deans Administrative Board of the AAMC and a member of the Liaison Committee on Medical Education.

A presidential search committee will be formed to identify and attract top candidates for that post.