After months of searching, the College of Engineering and Science has a newly designated dean.

José R. Sánchez, who most recently served at Merrimack College in North Andover, Massachusetts, where he held positions as dean and professor of the School of Science and Engineering, will lead CES beginning May 1.

“With his experience as an academic and leader, I am confident he will build upon the college’s established reputation, programmatic strengths and dedication to improving the quality of life and place for our students … as well as for our faculty and staff,” said Marie Mora, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs.

Sánchez has significant administrative experience. At Merrimack, he was founding dean of the School of Engineering and Computational Sciences. He was also a significant fundraiser, securing gifts to establish endowed professorships and research initiatives, significant expansion of sponsored research, the addition of several market-responsive undergraduate and master’s programs and expanded external partnerships with industry and government, according to PNW’s announcement of his selection.  

Sánchez will replace Bruce Berdanier, who became CES dean in July 2023. 

Kaden Otten, a junior Engineering major, is relieved that a new dean has been selected.

“Having a dean makes me feel more comfortable knowing someone is in charge of making sure me and other students are okay while also working behind the scenes to constantly improve the school as well,” Otten said.

Meanwhile, the university has chosen three finalists to the role of dean of the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences. Andre Marak, most recently provost of Roosevelt University; Robert Zamsky, associate provost at New College of Florida, and Richard Sévère, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Valparaiso University, all made public presentations and took questions during February and March.  A final decision is expected soon.