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Dear Colleagues,
I write to inform you that Dr. Ala Qubbaj has announced that he will step down as Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science, to return to the faculty effective June 2, 2025.
Earlier today, Dean Qubbaj expressed to his faculty and staff that:
“I have decided, for personal reasons, to step down from my position as Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science and return to the faculty. Since my appointment in January 2019, I have been honored to serve as a professor, Vice Provost and most recently as Dean. It has been a privilege to work alongside outstanding students, faculty and staff.
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who supported me during my tenure. It has been an honor to collaborate with such dedicated colleagues and to guide our university and college through numerous achievements. I look forward to continuing our collective mission as a faculty member, and I remain deeply committed to the success of our students and the advancement of our programs.”
Dr. Qubbaj joined one of our legacy institutions as an assistant professor in Fall 1999. He served as UTRGV Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs from 2015-2018, before assuming the role of Dean in January 2019.
Under his transformative leadership, the College of Engineering and Computer Science has experienced tremendous growth and student success. Among his laudable accomplishments during his tenure include the partnership between UTRGV and Los Alamos National Laboratory, as well as the creation of Ph.D. programs in Material Science and Computer Science. His profound impact on the UTRGV Community has been instrumental in developing the next generation of engineers and computer scientists that will shape the future of our region, state and country.
I wish Dr. Qubbaj continued success as he transitions back to a faculty role and reiterate my continued admiration of his tireless efforts to propel the College of Engineering and Computer Science forward during his six years of leadership.
In the coming weeks, I will announce the appointment of an interim dean and begin working with the college administrative team on a transition plan. We will also begin planning a search to identify the next Dean for the College of Engineering and Computer Science, and I will seek assistance from many of you during this process.
Once again, I extend my gratitude to Dr. Qubbaj for his leadership and a special thanks to each of you for all you do in support of UTRGV.
Sincerely,
Luis H. Zayas, Ph.D.
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
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