The Log | School News

Nicholas School Changes Name

The Nicholas School of the Environment has added "Earth Sciences" to its name to more accurately reflect the scope of the school’s programs.

The formal name change was approved by Duke University’s Board of Trustees after receiving endorsement by the Academic Council, the governing body of the university faculty. The name change follows incorporation of the former department of geology into the Nicholas School in 1997.

The trustees also authorized organization of the Nicholas School into the divisions of Earth and Ocean Sciences (EOS), of Environmental Sciences and Policy, and of Coastal Systems Science and Policy.

"I think that this is a watershed moment and opportunity," said Nicholas School Dean Norman L. Christensen Jr. "The intent when geology came into the school wasn’t that it was somehow going to join as a new appendage, but that we were in fact creating something very new that was as different as the school was when it was created initially in 1991.

"The idea of adding the phrase ‘Earth Sciences’ to the name, I think, captures that vision in a way that is also inclusive and signifies to the EOS faculty that they are not just joining something, but it truly is an integration."

Christensen said the new divisional structure reflects a unique form of governance for the school. While the divisions will operate to some extent as independent units, the school will also be involved in decisions on appointments, promotions or tenure.

A committee has been formed to create a new logo for the school. It should be in use by this summer.

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