Jeffrey B. Leak was named interim associate dean of the Honors College, effective Aug. 1. In this two-year appointment, Leak will manage the day-to-day functions of the University Honors Program — the largest honors program on campus. Additionally, he will oversee the curriculum, course offerings, programming, advising and instructional budget of the Honors College.
Malin Pereira, dean of the Honors College, said, “The Honors College has grown and developed significantly in the past decade. With my appointment as dean and the heightened visibility of the Honors College within academic affairs, we need someone to perform associate dean responsibilities. Dr. Leak’s prior experience on the Honors College team will enable a smooth transition to the role and ensure his success.”
Leak, an English professor specializing in African American literature, has been a dedicated faculty member since 1998. In addition to his role as professor, Leak joined the Honors College as the first faculty fellow for the Martin Scholars Program, served as faculty president for the 2015-16 academic year and won an American Council on Education fellowship in 2019-20.
“I am excited to return to the Honors College in this new role,” said Leak. “Since I began as a Martin Faculty Fellow, the college’s profile has changed dramatically. Given our unprecedented growth and commitment to inclusive excellence, the Honors College is poised to continue on a transformative trajectory for our students. As a member of an excellent team, my goal is to ensure that we work to maintain the core elements of a quality honors experience through cultivating a sense of intellectual curiosity, community and connection to the city of Charlotte.”
Leak completed a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English at Campbell University and the University of Delaware, respectively. His doctorate in American studies is from Emory University.