The University System of Maryland (USM)  Board of Regents today announced the appointment of Dr. Dan L. Jones as acting president of Towson University.  Jones, the current provost and vice president of learning of Towson University, will serve until an interim president is named.  He succeeds Mark L. Perkins, who submitted his resignation as president effective April 5.  

 

In making the announcement, USM board chairman Nathan A. Chapman, Jr., said "Dan Jones has a proven track record as an academic leader and he knows and loves Towson University. We are fortunate to have someone of his caliber and reputation to lead Towson until such time as an interim president is selected."  Chapman said that the interim president will serve while a national search is conducted for a new president.

 

Continued Chapman, "Dan's appointment provides sound leadership for the university while giving the board and the Towson entire community time for careful consideration of an interim president." Chapman appointed a committee of regents to receive nominations for the interim position, comprising regents Pat Florestano, who will serve as chair, Nina Houghton, Hagner Mister, David Nevins, and James Rosapepe.    
 
"Towson University has a distinction few universities with its history can boast.  It becomes a university of national choice for those who hope to gain the most from their opportunities to learn," said Jones. "I'm honored that the board has asked me to serve as president during this transition period." 

 

Jones, who earned his bachelor's degree and doctorate from the University of Utah, began his career at Towson University in 1966 as an assistant professor of English.  During his 37-year tenure at Towson he has served as chair of the English department, dean of the college of arts and sciences, interim provost, and provost.  

 

Jones, 64, and his wife Daisy live in Mt. Washington in Baltimore and have two sons and two grandsons.      

Towson University is the second largest university in Maryland and a member of the University System of Maryland. It enrolls more than 16,000 students, including international students from nearly 100 countries. Towson's 328-acre campus is located in the suburban community of Towson, Maryland, eight miles north of downtown Baltimore. Established in 1866, Towson is nationally recognized for its excellent programs in the arts, sciences, business, communications, humanities, health professions, education, and computer information systems.