Comm School dean steps down; search to resume

Nicole Thorne Jenkins, who served as dean of the McIntire School of Commerce through a period of major changes since 2020, stepped away from the role June 30. 

Amanda Cowen, the school’s senior associate dean for academic programs and a professor, is serving as interim dean after a search failed to find Jenkins’ successor. A new executive search will resume in the fall. 

Under Jenkins’ leadership, the Comm School completed a $250 million fundraising campaign early, extended the undergraduate program from two to three years, and launched new academic tracks in biotechnology and real estate. Jenkins also led the school as it expanded its physical space with the renovation of Cobb Hall and the construction of the new Shumway Hall.

“This has been the best professional experience of my career,” Jenkins wrote on LinkedIn in December when she announced her plans to step down. “I have enjoyed working with my fellow deans, the staff and faculty within the school, and our deeply engaged alumni on behalf of students across the University. I have enjoyed every minute of it.”

After her role concluded, Jenkins, an expert on financial reporting, organizational strategy and valuation, embarked on a one-year sabbatical to work on entrepreneurial ventures and finish a book project, according to the Comm School.