June 6, 2006

Dear Colleagues:

After nine years as chairman of the Department of Neurology, John Griffin is stepping down so he can focus on his study of peripheral neuropathy and an exciting initiative we'll soon be announcing that involves a cross-section of Hopkins institutions. Jack always had intended the chairmanship to be a 10-year job, but accelerated his schedule when this opportunity surfaced. He's the perfect individual for the assignment.

Justin McArthur, who's been doing a superb job as acting director, now takes on the title of interim director. This ensures an orderly transition. Justin has gained the respect of his colleagues and the administration while building momentum within the department. Like Jack Griffin, he is internationally recognized for his research, which focuses on the neurological aspects of HIV infection and multiple sclerosis. He also shares with Jack a love of teaching, having won multiple awards for his mentoring skills and directing the department's residency training programs for nine years. I am pleased Justin McArthur has agreed to continue running the Department of Neurology as its interim director.

Sincerely,
Edward D. Miller, M.D.
Dean/CEO
Johns Hopkins Medicine