The former director of the University of Oklahoma's Religious Studies Program will go on leave this upcoming year to take a fellowship in Washington, D.C.

Allen Hertzke, professor of political science, will take part in a visiting fellowship with the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.

"It's the kind of research I'd hope to do anyway, and my wife and I view this as an adventure," he said.

Hertzke notified the dean he wanted to step down from his position as director of the Religious Studies Program in spring 2007. He wanted to return to his full-time duties in the political science department. He also requested leave without pay for the 2008-2009 school year.

Hertzke said he always hoped the Religious Studies Program would grow so much that it would need a full-time director, instead of his part-time efforts.

The university found a new director of religious studies, Dr. Charles A Kimball, who will begin his position in the fall. Hertzke said he is thrilled with the selection of Kimball.

Hertzke received approval from the university to take a year off without pay. At the end of that time, he can request another year if he likes.

Hertzke will move to Rockville, Md., for at least a year with his wife, Barbara Norton, who recently completed her doctorate in public health.

Hertzke will conduct his research in Washington, D.C., studying religious interest groups there. Most religious denominations or other religious organizations have Washington offices and lobby in some capacity, Hertzke said.

While there, he'll also work for the Templeton Foundation for initiatives on global religious freedom, helping to develop a grant program.

Hertzke said this is a temporary change for him and his wife, and they will return to OU.

"We've been here 22 years and we love Norman."

Julianna Parker 366-3541 jparker@normantranscript.com