What’s in a name? A lot. While some universities are moving away from including creative activity among research endeavors, TCU is embracing it. The Office of Research is now the Office of Research and Creative Activity.
“This name change signifies that we all have a role to play in the Strategic Plan and TCU’s commitment to being a leader in academic discovery, creativity and scholarship across all disciplines,” said Reuben Burch, Vice Provost for Research and Creative Activity. “We recognize that everything we do as faculty is important and impacts our collective success.”
Burch, who arrived on campus Aug. 1, is leading with a dynamic vision for TCU’s interdisciplinary research and creative activity through collaborations, funding, productivity and achievements as he builds TCU’s capacity toward an R1 institution. In addition to changing the name to better reflect TCU’s overarching commitment, he has promoted two long-time staff members to leadership positions.
“We are preparing to grow department bandwidth and capability, beginning with empowering those who developed and fostered programs and compliance through their exemplary service-oriented mindset,” Burch said.
Leann Forsberg, formerly director, is now assistant vice provost for research, providing leadership and support for TCU’s entire research and creative activity enterprise, specifically Sponsored Programs, Research Development and Research Contracts. As assistant vice provost, Forsberg provides planning, policy and management related to externally funded projects. She working closely with faculty, researchers and administrators across different departments and colleges to create and maintain a culture of customer service. She will continue to facilitate funded research and communicate research opportunities and programming efforts.
Weldon George, formerly manager of research compliance, has been promoted to director to oversee TCU’s adherence to laws, regulations and ethical standards. This involves developing and implementing compliance programs, conducting risk assessments, and providing guidance to faculty and staff. George oversees regulatory oversight and activities supporting the Human Research Protection Program, the animal care and use program, laser safety program, and controlled substances program. He works closely with Risk Management/Environmental Health and Safety, regulatory committees, the attending veterinarian, the University Strategy and Innovation Office and others to ensure efficiency and compliance in all research endeavors.