Gerald Koocher was named the next dean of the College of Science and Health, DePaul announced Thursday.

Koocher served as president of the American Psychological Association in 2006, and has lectured at Harvard Medical School. At Simmons College in Boston, Koocher served as dean of the School of Health Sciences, and later served as the university’s assistant provost.

Koocher will take over the dean position at DePaul’s College of Science and Health from interim dean Jerry Cleland, who has served for the past two years. Koocher will officially take over the role on July 1. DePaul president Rev.

Dennis H. Holtschneider, C.M., wrote in an email to the DePaul community that Koocher has an extensive and distinguished career as a clinical psychologist and academic.

“His many years of leadership in higher education have positioned him well for building the future of the College of Science and Health,” wrote Holtschneider.

Koocher told DePaul Newsline he was excited to join DePaul’s faculty. “DePaul’s College of Science and Health has seen significant growth over the past two years, reflecting the tremendous changes taking place in the scientific and health care delivery fields,” said Koocher.