After more than four decades serving the Case ΒιΆΉΣ³» community, Charles Rozek, vice provost and dean of graduate studies, will retire effective June 30. Rozek has led the universityβs School of Graduate Studies since 2004.
βI believe that there comes a time when fresh ideas and perspectives can enhance the progress of the university,β Rozek said. βHanding over the leadership will facilitate this enhancement.β
In retirement, Rozek plans to enjoy more time with his wife, Sueβwho he met at Case Western Reserveβand their golden retriever, Mayzie. βI am also having my 1973 Corvette restored and look forward to days of driving pleasure,β he said. βGardening and woodworking, along with our shared interests in art collection and travel, will occupy a significant portion of our time.β
Rozek joined Case Western Reserve in 1983 as an assistant professor of biology, just three years after the inauguration of the universityβs third president. Since that time, heβs experienced a great deal of change.
βDuring my time at the university, Iβve witnessed an increased awareness of what our graduate students need for success,β Rozek said. βThis includes an emphasis on effective advising and mentoring. We have also found many ways to recognize and address mental health needs for our students.β
Among his accomplishments, Rozek established an annual awards ceremony for graduate students, improved graduate student education through increased mentoring and annual reviews, and created a Professional Development Center for graduate students. Additionally, he worked to enhance the experiences of postdoctoral fellows and scholars.
βOur campus and community have benefited from Chuckβs guidance both as a faculty member and as a leader,β said Provost and Executive Vice President Joy K. Ward. βDuring his long career, he has always put students first, and he leaves behind a strong legacy of advancements in graduate education.β