UA Little Rock Appoints New Leaders to Enhance STEM Education
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has appointed several new leaders within the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (DCSTEM) to enhance its academic offerings and research capabilities. These appointments include experienced professors who aim to foster student engagement and innovation in their respective fields.
Dr. Srikanth Pidugu has been named the inaugural Yupo Chan Director of the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology. With over 25 years of experience in engineering education, Pidugu has previously held roles such as chair of the Department of Engineering Technology. He is a licensed professional engineer in Arkansas and has been instrumental in achieving ABET accreditation and developing undergraduate curricula. Pidugu emphasized the importance of practical experience in engineering education, stating, “Engineering and engineering technology education is not just about theory. It is about creating opportunities where students engage with real-world challenges, develop practical skills, and discover their own potential to innovate and lead.”
In addition, Dr. Michael DeAngelis has been appointed as the director of the School of Physical Sciences. A faculty member since 2011, DeAngelis has extensive leadership experience, having served as the program coordinator for geology and co-director of the Campus Garden and the Academy for Teaching and Learning Excellence. His research focuses on nanophase mineral synthesis and Arkansas geology. “I am truly astounded by the passion of the School of Physical Sciences faculty,” DeAngelis remarked, expressing his commitment to supporting faculty research and teaching.
Dr. Ahmed Abu Halimeh takes on the role of interim director at the Emerging Analytics Center (EAC), a prominent laboratory in Arkansas specializing in virtual and augmented reality research. Since joining UA Little Rock in 2021, he has served as an associate professor in information science and interim chair of the Department of Computer Science. His expertise encompasses healthcare informatics and data visualization, with prior leadership positions at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
Furthermore, Dr. Sinéad Ní Chadhain has been appointed chair of the Department of Biology. A recent addition to UA Little Rock, she previously held a position as an associate professor of biology at the University of South Alabama. Ní Chadhain holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Scranton and a Ph.D. in marine studies from the University of Delaware. Her research experience includes roles at Rutgers University’s Biotechnology Center, focusing on environmental microbiology and microbial ecology.
Dean Tansel Karabacak praised the new leaders for their expertise and dedication to excellence. “This group brings a combination of institutional knowledge and fresh perspectives that will help move our college forward,” Karabacak stated. He expressed confidence that their leadership would spark innovation and foster collaboration, ultimately enhancing the national reputation of DCSTEM.
These new appointments promise to invigorate academic vision and support student success, interdisciplinary research, and program excellence across the Donaghey College of STEM. The leadership changes reflect a commitment to advancing educational standards and research initiatives, positioning UA Little Rock as a key player in STEM education.
