Doug Howard is stepping down as the dean of Belmont’s Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business after an eight year tenure.
Howard announced his departure in an email to faculty on Thursday morning.
“I am now in my eighth year, and I believe it is a perfect time for someone new to assume the role of dean and lead this unique college into the future,” he wrote in the email.
Howard, a Belmont alum, said he shared his intent to retire with former provost Thomas Burns in the spring and brought up the conversation again with President Greg Jones and interim provost David Gregory this summer.
His last day will be Aug. 31, the email said. A national search will commence for the new Curb College dean this fall. In the interim, Dr. Sarita Stewart will step into Howard’s role and Dr. Cheryl Carr will stay on as associate dean.
At the time of publication, Dean Howard had not responded to the Vision’s email about the statement.
Howard still plans on being involved with his alma mater, just in a different role.
“I look forward to being on campus for future showcases, concerts, and sporting events. And as a bonus, the new chair of the Curb College Advisory Board, Ben Vaughn — President and CEO of Warner Chappell Music, has asked me to remain as a team member on the board,” Howard wrote.
“Thanks to everyone for the love and support I have received over the years.”
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This article was written by Sarah Maninger. Contributory reporting by David Pang.