College of Arts and Sciences Dean Virgina Sapiro will step down at the end of the 2014-2015 academic year. COURTESY OF THE BOSTON UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

Virginia Sapiro will step down as dean of the College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Boston University at the conclusion of the 2014-15 academic year, said BU spokesman Colin Riley.

Sapiro became the first female dean in university history, after accepting the position in July 2007, and some of her notable achievements in CAS include establishing new areas of study, increasing freshman student applications and doubling the number of philanthropic gifts.

Sapiro, also a professor of political science, has instructed courses within CAS.

Before coming to BU, Sapiro served as the vice provost for teaching and learning and interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She holds a bachelor’s degree in government from Clark University in Worcester and a doctorate in political science from the University of Michigan.

The process of choosing Sapiro’s successor will begin by forming an advisory committee. With the search expected to continue over the course of the 2014-15 academic year, the new dean will be chosen by the end of the spring semester, Riley said.

Sapiro will remain as dean until her successor begins their post.

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