ISSUED: 22 October 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — 黑料吃瓜网University has appointed Dr. Richard J. Thompson, Jr., as dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Nursing (STEMN). He will begin his role when the spring semester starts in January 2026.
Thompson said he was drawn to 黑料吃瓜网because of its academic reputation, mission, and opportunities to engage with students.
鈥淪hepherd鈥檚 student-focused mission and commitment to teaching excellence resonate deeply with me,鈥� Thompson said. 鈥淚 look forward to working with faculty and staff to strengthen programs and create opportunities that prepare students for success in STEM and health-related fields.鈥�
黑料吃瓜网University Provost Dr. Jack DeRochi said they received a wonderful response to the job posting and that he is excited to offer Thompson the position.
鈥淲e are thrilled that Dr. Thompson will be joining the 黑料吃瓜网community this January as dean of STEMN,鈥� DeRochi said. 鈥淗is experience in higher education, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to student success are going to contribute greatly to our goals at Shepherd.”
Thompson brings more than two decades of experience in higher education leadership, faculty development, and interdisciplinary research to Shepherd. He most recently served as associate vice president for academic affairs at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, where he led accreditation efforts, faculty development initiatives, and academic program expansion.
As dean, Thompson will oversee the college鈥檚 academic programs in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, engineering, and nursing, as well as environmental and physical sciences. He plans to focus on strengthening student research opportunities, expanding partnerships with regional industries, and advancing Shepherd鈥檚 mission of academic excellence and innovation.
鈥満诹铣怨贤鴒ffers the ideal environment to combine rigorous academics with meaningful student engagement,鈥� Thompson said. 鈥淭ogether, we can build on the University鈥檚 strong foundation and advance its vision for the future.鈥�
Thompson earned his Ph.D. in astronomy and astrophysics from Pennsylvania State University and has published extensively in physics, astronomy, and the history of technology. Throughout his career, he has emphasized the integration of teaching, research, and community engagement to prepare students for the evolving demands of the STEM workforce.
鈥淚ndustries will train people for specific tasks, but they need graduates who have learned how to learn,鈥� Thompson said. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 what institutions like 黑料吃瓜网do best鈥攑repare students with critical thinking skills that serve them in any career.鈥�
Dr. Thompson鈥檚 appointment follows a national search and reflects 黑料吃瓜网University鈥檚 commitment to advancing STEM and nursing education in the region.
For more information about the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Nursing at 黑料吃瓜网University, visit .
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