Justine Reel

Following an internal search process, Justine Reel, associate dean and professor in the College of Health and Human Services, has been selected to serve as the interim dean for CHHS for the 2022-23 academic year, beginning July 1, 2022, according to a news release.

“Dr. Reel is an experienced leader dedicated to student, faculty and staff success,” said Provost James J. Winebrake, in the release. “I am confident she will guide the college successfully this coming academic year as CHHS continues to expand its impact regionally and nationally.”

Reel brings more than 17 years of administrative experience. Her leadership at UNCW includes service as associate dean for research and innovation in CHHS and interim director of sponsored programs and research compliance. 

Prior to joining UNCW in 2014, Reel held faculty positions at the University of Utah, West Chester University, Temple University and Salem College.

Among  her duties: Reel will lead the college in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives; developing faculty workload policies consistent with an aspiring research university; advancing new degree programs; meeting enrollment targets; expanding community engagement and applied learning activities; supporting interdisciplinary teaching and research; engaging in fundraising; and supporting other college and university initiatives, according to the release.

“It is an honor to serve as the interim dean for the College of Health and Human Services,” Reel said. “I am committed to preserving the college’s culture of collaboration, caring and compassion while keeping our students at the center of all we do.”

Reel is a professor of exercise science in the School of Health and Applied Human Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in exercise and sport science from the University of North Carolina Greensboro and has been a member of the university community since 2014.