Dean Ken Randall’s retirement from the University of Alabama means more than grazing the pasture. Former dean Randall is retiring but transitioning to the private sector. He comments, “I’m in my mid-50s, I think it’s a good time to retire. I really love the University. I’ve had other opportunities, but I think loyalty is really good to have at an institution. We had a good run.”
Former dean Randall emailed news of his departure to his law students on Friday. University of Alabama president Judy Bonner confirmed the former dean’s retirement Thursday night. It is effective immediately and an interim dean will be chosen in the upcoming weeks. Former dean Randall commented that he informed the University several months ago. “I told the University about the move, and it was announced a little bit on the later side. I’ve been contemplating this for a while. I love the University, but I was ready for the next challenge.”
A transitioning dean can be a scary situation for students and faculty. The unknown is very hard to swallow, especially when things have been going well with one person at the helm for so long. Of course change can be hard, but as students graduate and inbound students come in things will adjust. Expecting a smooth transition for the University of Alabama, All Alabama reports that former dean Randall commented that while he doesn’t have any insight on who will be chosen, “administrators have a great faculty to choose from.” This indicates smooth sailing for the university with a positive outlook ahead.
In a departing email, former dean Randall stated, “One of my greatest joys has been my connection to our outstanding law students in both my dean and teacher capacity. Thank you for allowing me to serve the student body. We have built a good team at the Law School, and my administrative philosophy has always been that good management is about collaboration and team effort. I have no doubt the Law School only will improve and prosper in the years ahead.”
Ken Randall will move from the academic life to the corporate life. He plans on working with a group that deals with venture capital and private equity. He said he’ll miss the students, colleagues and the academic environment, but he feels he’s leaving the school in prime condition, according to AL.com.
“The school doesn’t have any problems whatsoever, it has aspirations, but you always want to leave an institution when its in good shape,” Randall said.