Joan Piroch, chair of Coastal Carolina University's Department of Psychology and Sociology, has been appointed interim dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. She replaces Doug Nelson, who is retiring from the position but will continue to teach.

"With her academic background and record of responsibilities, Dr. Piroch is well suited for this job," said Provost Pete Barr. "She has graciously agreed to step into this position to allow us to search for a dean candidate without interrupting the high level of excellence in the college."

Piroch joined the Coastal faculty in 1982. Her responsibilities as dean include curriculum development, budgets, promotions and tenure issues related to faculty, and overall leadership within the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. She earned a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of South Florida in 1982, a master's degree in psychology from Western Washington University in 1974 and a bachelor's degree in liberal arts from Slippery Rock University in 1972. She has chaired Coastal's Department of Psychology and Sociology since 1987.