by David Chapman
Staff Writer
Quinton White has had multiple roles at Jacksonville University and over the next year, he’ll have multiple workspaces.
White, the current dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, was named the executive director of the university’s upcoming Marine Science Research Institute. The 30,000 square-foot educational facility will be constructed on campus property along the St. Johns River and will help boost the Marine Science program.
“I can’t wait for it to be complete,” said White. “It’s going to take the program to the next level.”
White isn’t a stranger to JU. He’s been with the university since 1976 and served as chair of the Department of Biology and Marine Science and the Division of Science and Mathematics before becoming interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
“I love dealing with students,” he said. “I have worn many hats here over the years and I don’t think I could ever have a regular nine-to-five job.”
In July, White will be stepping down as dean – and out of his current office in the Howard Administration Building – to move to what once was the acting president’s home on campus and work on everything from fundraising to overseeing construction for the new center.
“What I’ll miss the most is probably helping and seeing the people and students on a daily basis,” he said, referring to his current role as dean.
With ground breaking for the Marine Science Research Institute taking place later this year, White will be in the former president’s home until construction is complete in late 2009 when he’ll move offices again inside the new facility and have an added perk to the job.
“I’ll be able to get back in the classroom and teach more,” he said. “I’ve missed it and I’m a teacher at heart.”
For more information on JU’s Marine Science Research Institute, go to www.ju.edu/msri.