The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department is in the process of looking for an interim chair after the passing of former chair Jorge Aravena on Sept. 17.
Richard Koubek, dean of the College of Engineering, asked electrical and computer engineering faculty in an e-mail Sept. 22 to consider the opportunity to serve in the role of interim department chair.
“Whoever steps into this position wants to be sure that they are committed to helping the department move forward,” Koubek said.
Pratul Ajmera, electrical and computer engineering professor agrees with those sentiments.
“The interim chair assumes the responsibilities of the chairmanship in the department,” Koubek said, “They act as the regular chair until a permanent person is appointed to the position.”
The interim chair is required to attend department meetings, represent the department in academic discussions, work with the dean of the engineering college office, interact with students and alumni and “imbue the collegiality necessary to keep the department moving forward,” Koubek explained in the e-mail.
Koubek declined to comment on the number of applications received because applications for the position are not due until Friday.
Still, Koubek hopes the faculty is motivated to take the position.
“There are a lot people in the department that are really committed to its mission,” Koubek said, “This provides an opportunity for one of them to step forward and do it as the interim chair.”
Mimi LaValle, the college of engineering’s director of communication, said the decision for interim chair will be made within two weeks.
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Contact Julian Tate at [email protected]