After almost two decades of running the Smith School of Business at Queen’s, David Saunders has resigned as dean.

In a letter from Principal Patrick Deane circulated to Smith’s staff, faculty, and students on Oct. 15, the resignation was described as “a well-deserved administrative leave,” indicating Saunders would return in 2023 to his faculty position at the business school. 

Deane announced in the letter that Teri Shearer, deputy provost (Academic Operations and Inclusion) would take over immediately, putting on hold a search committee focused on finding a new dean.

Deane wrote he expects to find a more permanent interim replacement in the next month to take over from Shearer, with the new dean being selected in the months after.

With Shearer as interim dean, Deane said an outside consultant will be brought in “to conduct a full review of the Faculty which will include an assessment of climate, strategy and resources within Smith.” 

Amber Wallace, director of communications and external relations for the Smith School of Business wrote in an email to The Journal that, prior to his resignation, Saunders sent a note to Smith’s staff and faculty that announced, “By stepping down, I will clear the way for the Principal as he begins the search process for a new Dean.”

Wallace said it’s normal for faculty members to earn a sabbatical leave.

“We will continue to execute against the school’s strategic priorities and will operate business as usual,” she said.