Phyllis Vroom, dean and professor of the Wayne State University School of Social Work, has announced her retirement effective Sept. 30, 2011. Vroom, who joined the School of Social Work in 1969, has served in numerous leadership roles throughout her 42-year career at the University. She was appointed dean in 2002. She also served as acting provost and as acting president of the University during part of 2010.

Phyllis Vroom

"Dean Vroom's name is synonymous with Wayne State as well as the School of Social Work. Under her leadership, the school has been recognized internationally for the quality of its research, and as a force for social change and community transformation," said Wayne State Provost Ronald Brown. "We appreciate her many years of commitment to the University and admire her dedication to making a difference in the lives of families and children. She will be greatly missed."

Vroom received a Master of Social Work from Wayne State and a Ph.D. in higher education administration from the University of Michigan. Her areas of expertise include social work practice with African-American children, youth and families; social work in urban middle schools; and social group services.

Associate Dean Cheryl Waites will serve as interim dean of the School of Social Work until a successor is found. A national search will begin this fall.

"It has been a fascinating journey here at Wayne State," Vroom said. "The past 42 years have presented me with immense opportunities for professional and community service. I'm proud of the programs we've been able to develop and implement. I've had the opportunity to work with many talented individuals and groups at Wayne State and in diverse metropolitan Detroit communities.

"I've also had the good fortune to work with a supportive board of visitors, my own dedicated and talented academic and administrative leadership team and hard-working and distinguished faculty, staff and students. It is my hope that the school will move from excellent to outstanding. I'm confident my successor will meet that challenge."

Wayne State University is a premier urban research university offering more than 400 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 32,000 students.

For more information about the Wayne State University School of Social Work, visit www.socialwork.wayne.edu.