1 December 2003

Dear Provost Shelton:

As you know, I am currently serving my 15^th year as Dean of the School of Dentistry, and thus am approaching the end of my third term in that position.  This letter is to advise that I do not wish to seek renewal, and intend to step down from the deanship on 31 December 2004.  As we discussed, I would appreciate being granted a one-year academic leave to facilitate my rejoining the faculty in a teaching and research capacity. 

At UNC Chapel Hill a deanship is a particularly privileged position, and I have enjoyed serving the University under four outstanding Chancellors and four superb Provosts.  It has been similarly gratifying to lead North Carolina's only, and the nation's finest, Dental School.  With respect to the latter, most rewarding has been the transformation of the School to position it for even more success in the 21^st century.  That success must be built on the UNC tradition of serving the people of North Carolina, a deeply held and long demonstrated commitment by the faculty and staff at the School of Dentistry. 

In the months ahead, please give your highest personal commitment, while employing the fullest resources of the University, to recruiting the next leader for the UNC School of Dentistry.  Your success in that endeavor is critical to ensuring the Dental School's continued reputation for unparalleled excellence in teaching, research, patient care and service. Lastly, thank you for the immense support you have given to me throughout. 

Warmest personal regards,

John W. Stamm, DDS
Professor and Dean

c.   J. Moeser, Chancellor
     M. Broad, President

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