The University of North Carolina Wilmington recently named Paul Townend associate vice chancellor and dean of undergraduate studies. The university also named Sean Palmer the new director of the Upperman African American Cultural Center.
 
Townend, associate professor and chairman of the UNCW Department of History since 2008, assumed his new role as associate vice chancellor and dean of undergraduate studies on April 1.
 
In his new role, Townend provides leadership for UNCW’s engagement in undergraduate education. He oversees several academic programs, including ETEAL, General Education Assessment, Honors Scholars College, the Center for the Support of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships and Undergraduate Studies, according to a news release.
 
“Paul is an exceptional leader who has demonstrated collaboration in everything that he does,” provost Marilyn Sheerer said. “UNCW will continue to benefit from his effective leadership in this new role.”
 
Sean Palmer (at left) will begin his new role as the director of the Upperman African American Cultural Center on May 30.
 
Palmer previously served as the assistant director of the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture at Duke University, the release stated.
 
“His experience and leadership will contribute immensely to positioning the Upperman Center as a premier cultural center and a recognized UNCW asset,” said Kent Guion, the university’s chief diversity officer.