New acting dean appointed for College of Engineering
Valparaiso University professor Eric Johnson will begin serving as acting dean of the University’s College of Engineering beginning July 1, 2012.
In his new role, Johnson will be responsible for the leadership, coordination, and guidance for the College of Engineering. Primary responsibilities will include budget development and management, strategic planning, faculty development, student recruitment and advising, College advancement, and the continued enhancement of constituent relationships, especially alumni relations.
Johnson has served Valpo since 1997 as professor of electrical and computer engineering, and he has been named the Brandt Professor of Engineering. He was the director of the University’s study abroad center in Reutlingen, Germany, from 2004-2007 and leads many of the international engineering programs in the college.
“Eric’s involvement on many levels across campus, including serving as chair of electrical and computer engineering, chair of the international affairs committee, vice chair of the Faculty Senate and as a member of the Master Plan Task Force, made him an ideal candidate to lead the College of Engineering,” said Mark Schwehn, Valparaiso University Provost.
Johnson teaches classes in digital systems design, computer architecture and VLSI design, with research focuses in nanotechnology, international engineering, and engineering education pedagogy. He is professionally affiliated with the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, the American Society for Engineering Education, Sigma Xi, Eta Kappa Nu, and Tau Beta Pi. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Valpo (1987) and his master’s and doctorate degrees at Notre Dame (1994, 1997).
More information about Valpo’s College of Engineering can be found online at valpo.edu/engineering.
About Valparaiso University
Valparaiso University is a comprehensive independent Lutheran university with more than 4,000 students on its campus located in Northwest Indiana, an hour from Chicago. Valpo is a community of purpose-driven, service-minded and ethical individuals who embrace the pursuit of truth with freedom, humility and compassion. Valpo has been identified as one of the top master’s-level institutions in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report magazine for the past 22 years. Valparaiso University offers 110 undergraduate academic programs through the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering and Nursing. Valpo also has a distinguished honors college, a School of Law and more than 40 degree and certificate programs in its Graduate School and Continuing Education Division. Valpo has been recognized for its commitment to outstanding teaching, preparing thoughtful leaders with strong cross-cultural skills and global awareness, and dedication to serving others.