Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to announce the reappointment of Dr. Bruce Liang to a third five-year term as Dean of the UConn School of Medicine, effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Liang has served in this role since 2015, and his continued leadership reflects the strong foundation he has built and the significant progress achieved over the past decade.

This reappointment follows a comprehensive five-year review, which included feedback from faculty, staff, university leadership, and clinical and community partners. Over the past five years, Dr. Liang has led the School of Medicine through a period of meaningful growth and advancement. He oversaw the full implementation of the MDelta curriculum, which has enriched the educational experience for students and improved outcomes. The School has also expanded its class size, exceeding the initial targets set by Bioscience Connecticut, a state investment launched in 2011 to position Connecticut as a leader in biomedical research and innovation.

Dr. Liang led the development of a Science Strategy Plan aligned with the University’s priorities, recruited exceptional faculty, and helped drive an increase in NIH funding. Collaborative partnerships with Jackson Laboratories and Connecticut Children’s have deepened, further elevating the School’s research profile.

The School has remained a vital contributor to Connecticut’s healthcare workforce, with many graduates staying in the state to practice. Its Graduate Medical Education programs have grown which now rank in the top 10% nationally. Dr. Liang has also strengthened community service programs, securing major grants, supporting the Urban Service Track, Area Health Education Center, Health Career Opportunity Program, and Office of Multicultural and Community Affairs, as well as expanding care access through clinics serving immigrants in the state.

During this term, Dr. Liang also served as Interim CEO of UConn Health, for more than two years, guiding the institution through a key leadership transition with professionalism, growth, integrity, and a clear commitment to the university’s mission.

I extend my sincere thanks to the review committee for their thoughtful and thorough work throughout this process. Their efforts helped provide a comprehensive assessment of Dr. Liang’s leadership and the School’s continued trajectory. Please join me in congratulating Dr. Liang on his reappointment and thanking him for his continued service to UConn Health and the University of Connecticut.

Sincerely,
Anne

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
For Academic Affairs
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

STUDENTS FIRST, UCONN ALWAYS, HUSKIES FOREVER. 

For updates on our university strategic plan, please visit Envisioning 2034.

Dear Colleagues,

I’m writing to share that Dean Indrajeet Chaubey will be stepping down from his role later this summer to become the next Provost at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. While it’s always difficult to see a valued colleague move on, I know I speak for many when I say how proud I am to see Indrajeet take on this exciting opportunity—and how grateful I am for the outstanding leadership he has brought to UConn over the past six years.

Since joining the University in 2019, Indrajeet has served as Dean of the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to Land Grant values. His time at CAHNR has been marked by steady growth and a clear sense of purpose. Under his leadership, the College launched a new strategic vision rooted in interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world impact, and he led the way in aligning the College’s work with some of the most pressing needs facing our state and our world.

During his tenure, CAHNR more than doubled its annual research funding, expanded student enrollment, significantly increased scholarship support, and extended the reach of its Extension programs across Connecticut. These accomplishments are impressive on their own—but even more striking is the culture of energy, collaboration, and ambition that Indrajeet helped cultivate. He’s been a tireless advocate for the College, and for the people in it, and his impact will be felt for years to come.

I had the pleasure of working alongside Indrajeet when we were both deans, and I’ve always appreciated his thoughtfulness, his forward-looking approach, and the calm and steady way he leads. I’ll miss having him here as a colleague, but I know he’ll be a wonderful provost, and the University of Arkansas is lucky to have him.

We’ll be announcing plans for interim leadership in CAHNR in the coming weeks. In the meantime, please join me in thanking Indrajeet for his exceptional service to UConn and in wishing him all the best in this next chapter.

Sincerely,
Anne

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

UConn is a great university.

But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut,  built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn.

STUDENTS FIRST. UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.

 

Dear Colleagues,

Earlier this week, we shared the news that Dean John Elliott will be stepping down after more than 12 years of dedicated service to the UConn School of Business. Today, I am pleased to announce that Professor Greg Reilly will serve as Interim Dean, effective January 3, 2025.

Dr. Reilly is a valued member of our community, known for his commitment to students and his innovative approach to education. As Head of the Boucher Management & Entrepreneurship Department, he has been instrumental in launching and expanding UConn’s Hillside Experiential Learning programs. These initiatives—including Hillside Ventures, our student-led venture investing program—have provided invaluable hands-on experiences for our students in areas like private capital and real estate investment. Dr. Reilly also developed the School’s Graduate Program in Human Resource Management and has led executive training programs with organizations around the world.

In addition to his administrative roles, Dr. Reilly is a dedicated teacher and researcher in strategic management and human capital. His work with leaders across various industries showcases his ability to connect academic insights with real-world applications.

I am confident that Dr. Reilly’s experience and thoughtful leadership will provide continuity for the School of Business during this transition. His collaborative spirit and dedication to our mission make him an excellent choice to guide the School as we look toward the future.

In January, we will begin a national search for the next dean of the School of Business, partnering with a search firm to help us find the right person to build upon the strong foundation that has been established. I will be sharing more information about the search process soon, and I encourage all of you to participate and share your perspectives on the future direction of the School.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Reilly on his appointment and thanking him for stepping into this important role.

All best,
Anne

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

UConn is a great university.
But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut,  built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn. 

STUDENTS FIRST. UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to announce the reappointment of Indrajeet Chaubey for a second five-year term as Dean of the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR). This decision follows an exhaustive review conducted by a dedicated committee, tasked with evaluating Dean Chaubey’s leadership and overall contributions to the College over the last five years.

Dean Chaubey’s leadership has been characterized by significant achievements that align closely with the College’s mission and the broader goals of UConn. Under his guidance, the College has seen significant growth in enrollment, with record numbers of undergraduate and graduate students. In order to continue to meet the evolving needs of our students and the industries we serve, Dean Chaubey has led the development and implementation of innovative academic programs across CAHNR and the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture. These programs have not only enriched our educational offerings but have also positioned us as leaders in fields critical to sustainability, as well as human, animal, and environmental health.

Since Dean Chaubey’s arrival to UConn in 2019, CAHNR’s research enterprise has also seen significant growth, more than doubling in five years to $41.5 million in FY23. This is thanks in part to Dean Chaubey’s ability to effectively foster a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration, investment in faculty success, and the advancement of the College’s Strategic Vision which is aligned with UConn and CAHNR’s strengths. The recognition our research has received, both nationally and internationally, is a testament to the vibrant scholarly environment he has nurtured.

Furthermore, Dean Chaubey’s adept administrative skills have greatly enhanced our operational efficiency and transparency, creating a supportive atmosphere that enables both faculty and staff to excel. His commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion has been reflected across various dimensions of the College’s activities, from recruitment to programming, contributing to a more equitable academic environment.

Dean Chaubey’s engagement with stakeholders—ranging from faculty and staff to alumni, industry partners, governmental agencies, and the communities we serve—has significantly strengthened the College’s external relationships. During his first term, Dean Chaubey led efforts to expand the impact of UConn Extension in all 169 of Connecticut’s municipalities. With nearly 174,000 residents reached through 506 programs across the state in 2023 alone, UConn Extension’s ability to authentically engage with our communities continues to grow. These relationships have been pivotal in expanding our resources and enhancing our educational, research, and service capabilities.

As we look ahead, I am confident in Dean Chaubey’s ability to continue to lead CAHNR with distinction and foresight. The ongoing dialogue he maintains with our community is vital in shaping a transparent and inclusive future for the College.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the members of the review committee for their commitment and thoroughness throughout the evaluation process. Special thanks to Dean Philip Hritcko, Professor Mary Anne Amalaradjou, Tina Burnham, Professor Bonnie Burr, Professor Robert Day, Professor Elaine Lee, and Professor Justin Nash, who spent countless hours gathering feedback, analyzing data, and compiling a comprehensive report that has been extremely valuable in guiding this decision.

Thank you once again to all members of our community for your unwavering support of our mission and your contributions to our success as a land-grant institution. As we move into the summer, I wish each of you a season filled with growth, reflection, and well-deserved rest.

Sincerely,

Anne

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

 UConn is a great university.

But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut, built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn.

 STUDENTS FIRST, UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.

Dear Colleagues,

I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Tadarrayl Starke as our new Vice Provost for Undergraduate Student Success, effective July 1. Dr. Starke’s extensive background and proven leadership in enhancing student success make him exceptionally suited for this role, and we are fortunate to have such a visionary leader joining our senior administrative team.

Dr. Starke has been an integral part of the UConn family as the Associate Vice Provost for Student Success, where he has overseen a diverse and expansive division. His leadership has been instrumental in supporting key programs such as the First-Year Programs and Learning Communities department, the Academic Achievement Center, and the Office of Student Retention. His efforts have significantly enriched our student support services and have played a crucial role in our institution’s strides towards enhanced academic and community engagement across all campuses.

Prior to his tenure at UConn, Dr. Starke made significant impacts at Florida State University as the Director and Department Chair for the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE). There, he led initiatives that dramatically increased retention and graduation rates, particularly for first-generation and low-income students. These achievements contributed to FSU’s rise in national rankings and underscored Dr. Starke’s expertise in elevating academic success through inclusive and comprehensive strategies.

Dr. Starke’s vision for the role of Vice Provost for Undergraduate Student Success at UConn is to cultivate an environment where academic performance is integrated with deep and meaningful engagement to address the multifaceted needs of our student body. He plans to enhance our educational practices by focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, which are essential for fostering a thriving academic community.

I would also like to express my gratitude to the search committee, chaired by Vice Provost Dan Schwartz, for their exceptional work throughout the search process. Their commitment to thoroughness and excellence has been crucial in selecting a candidate whose vision and values align so closely with our institutional goals.

Please join me in warmly welcoming Dr. Tadarrayl Starke to his new role. We eagerly anticipate the innovative contributions he will bring, enhancing our commitment to student success and setting new benchmarks for academic excellence and student well-being.

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

UConn is a great university.

But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land and Sea Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut, built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn.

STUDENTS FIRST. UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.

 

Dear UConn Faculty, Staff, and Undergraduate Students,

It is with great pleasure and immense pride that I announce the appointment of Fany DeJesús Hannon as the Dean of Students. Fany, who has served with distinction in this role on an interim basis since November 2022, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our university community.

Fany’s journey with us at UConn has been nothing short of remarkable. A graduate of our Neag School of Education’s Higher Education and Student Affairs program, Fany has dedicated over a decade to enhancing the lives of our students, particularly through her leadership at the Puerto Rican/Latin American Cultural Center (PRLACC). Her work there has not only supported but also enriched the academic and social lives of our students, helping them to succeed and thrive in diverse environments.

Her path to this pivotal role began long before she joined us, stretching back to her formative years in Honduras, her academic pursuits at Smith College, and her invaluable experiences at Miami Dade College. Fany’s story is one of perseverance and resilience, qualities that she brings to her office every day, benefiting our entire community​​.

The role of Dean of Students is critical in shaping a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic university environment. Fany’s leadership is characterized by her ability to connect authentically with students, her innovative approaches to student engagement, and her relentless advocacy for programs that enhance student life. Her contributions have been instrumental in creating a sense of belonging among our students, fostering an environment where they can feel safe, loved, and challenged.

Throughout Fany’s time as interim Dean of Students, she has developed impactful programs aimed at bringing together students to foster dialogue and thoughtful discussions about issues they face at the University, in their personal lives, and global events, including through the newly established Dinner with the Dean series.

As we look forward to Fany’s continued leadership, we are confident in her vision for the Dean of Students office to be a central resource for student success at UConn. Her extensive experience and proactive approach will be vital as we strive to enhance our student services and support mechanisms further.

Please join me in congratulating Fany on her well-deserved appointment. We are excited to support her as she leads the Dean of Students office to new heights, contributing significantly to our mission of fostering outstanding academic, personal achievements, a sense of belonging, and student success.

Sincerely,

Anne

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

UConn is a great university.

But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land and Sea Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut,  built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn.

STUDENTS FIRST. UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.

Dear Faculty, Staff, Graduate and Professional Students,

As you all know, Kent Holsinger will be retiring at the end of this academic year after serving 12 years as Dean and Vice Provost and over 38 years overall at UConn. Over the last several months, with your help, we have conducted a search to identify the next incumbent. I am delighted to announce the appointment of Leslie Shor, Ph.D., as the next Dean of the Graduate School and Vice Provost for Graduate Education at the University of Connecticut, effective July 1, 2024.

Dr. Shor has been an integral part of our community for nearly 15 years and brings a distinguished record of academic achievement and leadership to her new role. She joins the Provost’s Office from the College of Engineering where she has served five years as Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education and is currently Centennial term Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. During her time as associate dean, PhD applications and external research funding have more than doubled while opportunities for professional development and support for both graduate students and faculty have expanded. Her deep commitment to graduate education and her innovative, collaborative approach to academic leadership make her the ideal choice to lead our Graduate School toward a future rich with opportunity and discovery.

Dr. Shor’s career at UConn has been marked by her creative and collaborative approach to interdisciplinary research and her dedication to expanding opportunities for others. Her leadership has been instrumental in developing initiatives that bridge various disciplines, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances both educational quality and research innovation.

Throughout her academic career, Dr. Shor and her students and collaborators have developed environmental biotechnology for improved management of environmental pollutants including polyaromatic hydrocarbons and microplastics as well as technology for promoting sustainable food production. She has been a passionate advocate for integrating innovation and entrepreneurship into academic research and graduate education.  Her vision for The Graduate School includes not only maintaining rigorous academic standards but also increasing accessibility and support for all students, building innovative convergence research and education programs, and promoting a diverse and inclusive community.

Dr. Shor holds Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering from Rutgers University, and a B.A. in Environmental Science and Chemistry (double major) from the University of Virginia. Her research has garnered international recognition, contributing significantly to her field and beyond, influencing policies and practices in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

As we welcome Dr. Shor to her new role, I am confident that her extensive experience and proven commitment to transformational leadership will propel The Graduate School towards new heights of academic excellence and innovation. Her deep respect for The Graduate School’s staff and affiliated faculty, and her collaborative approach promise a future where change is thoughtful and inclusive, ensuring that our graduate and professional programs prosper and that our graduate students and postdocs thrive.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Shor on her new appointment. We are excited to support her as she leads The Graduate School and graduate education toward a promising and impactful future.

All best,
Anne

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

UConn is a great university.
But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land and Sea Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut,  built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn.
STUDENTS FIRST. UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.

 

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Deanna Fitzgerald, M.F.A, as the next Dean of the School of Fine Arts at UConn, effective August 1, 2024. Deanna brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our institution from her tenure at the University of Arizona. With 16 years of service, in various roles from faculty member to her most recent position of Vice Dean of the College of Fine Arts, and through previous roles as Associate Director, Director of Graduate Studies, Interim Director of the School of Theatre, Film and Television and the School of Dance and, Interim Associate Director of the School of Music,  Deanna has demonstrated dedication to the arts, education, and leadership in various capacities. Deanna’s adaptability, resilience, and commitment to excellence make her the ideal candidate to lead our School of Fine Arts.

Deanna has a multifaceted background as an artist, educator, and administrator in the field of lighting design that is truly impressive. She received her training at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) and is a member of in United Scenic Artists. The publication of Deanna’s book, “The Heart of Light: A Holistic Primer for a Life and Career in Lighting Design and Production,” demonstrates her deep understanding of the discipline and desire to share knowledge with others. The emphasis on parallels between creative and meditative practices, as well as her focus on inclusivity and diversity in the arts, reflects a forward-thinking and compassionate approach to her work. Deanna’s efforts to examine neurodiversity in the performing arts and challenge assumptions about who can participate and excel in the field are commendable. She is a true advocate for social change in the field of arts.

Deanna boasts an impressive portfolio in both national and international design, with standout projects like the world premiere of the Las Vegas adaptation of STOMP OUT LOUD following years of touring with the original STOMP production, as well as the tour Cirque Mechanics: Boom Town, which enjoyed an off-Broadway stint at The New Victory Theatre.  Her design for the North American tour of the Australian company’s Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo garnered attention, particularly with it’s run in Toronto.  In Arizona, she is a regular designer for the esteemed Rogue Theatre. Her lighting expertise encompasses a broad range of genres, having created designs for the San Francisco Opera’s Merola and Coconut Grove Playhouse’s Young Artist programs, original dance designs for choreographers such as Deborah Hay, Ben Levy, and Andy Vaca.  Deanna has fulfilled other roles with notable companies such as the Cincinnati Ballet, the Opera Theatre Music Festival in Lucca, Italy, and has served on the Boards of Directors for the University Resident Theatre Association and the United States Institute of Theatre Technology, and currently serves on the Western Region Exam Committee for United Scenic Artists and as a General Editor for Theatre Design and Technology magazine.

Deanna brings an extensive background and record of achievement in managing complex budgets, overseeing endowment and scholarship distributions, and leading strategic initiatives.  This speaks to her ability to navigate the administrative challenges of higher education while remaining focused on the core mission of fostering student success and artistic excellence. Her reputation as a creative, transparent, empathetic, and pragmatic leader aligns well with the School of Fine Arts values and priorities.

We are excited to welcome Deanna to our community and look forward to the contributions she will make as a member of our faculty and leadership team. Her experience, vision, and dedication will undoubtedly enrich our School of Fine Arts and help us continue to fulfill our mission of excellence in arts education, research and creative work, and engagement. Please join me in welcoming Deanna to UConn.

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

UConn is a great university.

But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land and Sea Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut,  built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn.

STUDENTS FIRST. UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.

Dear College of Engineering Faculty, Staff, and Students:

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Ji-Cheng ‘JC’ Zhao, Ph.D., as the next Dean of the College of Engineering at UConn, effective August 12, 2024. Dr. Zhao, a distinguished figure in the field of materials science and engineering, joins us from the University of Maryland, College Park, where he served as the Department Chair of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) and Clark Distinguished Chair Professor. Dr. Zhao’s dedication to innovation and education, along with his creativity and collaboration, make him the ideal candidate to lead our College of Engineering towards new heights of academic excellence and research innovation.

Dr. Zhao brings a wealth of experience from an illustrious career spanning academia, industry, and government. Prior to his tenure at the University of Maryland, he was a professor at The Ohio State University’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering and also served as a Program Director at the U.S. Department of Energy’s ARPA-E (Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy), managing $100M in projects to develop energy-efficient and green technologies. Before academia and government, Zhao was a Materials Scientist and project leader at GE Research Center for 12 years, inventing new materials and processes, predominately for gas turbines and jet engines.

His pioneering work in the design of advanced alloys and coatings, additive manufacturing, and high-throughput materials science methodologies, among other areas, has established him as a leader in the field, leading to the induction to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) in 2023. In addition to many materials innovations, he pioneered the development of a diffusion-multiple approach and co-developed several materials property microscopy tools for accelerated materials discovery and development. He holds 49 US patents covering a range of materials, processes, and systems.

Dr. Zhao’s research has been recognized with numerous awards, including the William Hume-Rothery Award from the Minerals, Metals, and Materials Society and the J. Willard Gibbs Phase Equilibria Award from ASM International. Dr. Zhao is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), American Society for Metals (ASM), the Materials Research Society (MRS), and the Minerals, Metals and Materials Society (TMS). He served on the Subcommittee on the Materials Genome Initiative (MGI) of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) from 2014 to 2017, and on the Board of Trustees of ASM International from 2019 to 2022.

As department chair at Maryland, Dr. Zhao gained experience in managing complex budgets, leading cross-functional teams, building industry partnerships, and engaging in development work. Dr. Zhao holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Lehigh University, as well as M.S. and B.S. degrees in Materials Science and Engineering (Physical Metallurgy) from Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.

Dr. Zhao is dedicated to continuing to build on the College of Engineering’s strengths, expanding our research footprint, fostering transformative and impactful educational programs, and advancing the College’s relationships with local, national, and international partners.

“Even though I am sad to depart the excellent MSE Department at the University of Maryland, I am very excited to join the Husky Nation and to leverage my combined experience in industry, government and academia for the betterment of the UConn College of Engineering,” said Zhao.

Please join me in welcoming Dr. Zhao to UConn and to his new role as Dean of the College of Engineering. We look forward to his leadership and vision in advancing the College’s mission.

Anne D’Alleva, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President
University of Connecticut
Office of the Provost
352 Mansfield Road, U-1086
Storrs CT 06269-1086
Tel. 860-486-4037

UConn is a great university.

But it’s more than that. A top-ranked Land and Sea Grant research institution, with campuses and staff across Connecticut,  built to inspire the global community that is UConn Nation. UConn’s talented students exceed expectations. Our expert researchers, faculty, and alumni drive Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for a better tomorrow. We fuel the State’s economy and are committed to inclusion with emotional intelligence in benefiting the greater good. This is UConn.

STUDENTS FIRST. UCONN ALWAYS. HUSKIES FOREVER.