Indian American academician Atul Kelkar will take over as the next dean of Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science at Binghamton University from August 1.
As the dean, he will be responsible for elevating the research and programming to new heights of excellence at Watson College and the University.
Hailing Kelkar's appointment as a “best choice” president Harvey Stenger said, “The tireless efforts of the search committee to find a suitable candidate for the Watson Dean position have paid off in the appointment of Atul Kelkar.”
He further added, "Atul’s experience and dedication to his students and his alignment with our mission made him the best choice as we move into the next stage of growth for Watson College.”
Currently a D.W. Reynolds distinguished professor and department chair in the department of mechanical engineering at Clemson University, Kelkar served as the program director of the National Science Foundation.
In that role, he co-led the Dynamics, Control, and System Diagnostics (DCSD) Program in the CMMI Division of Engineering Directorate.
At Iowa State University, Kelkar served as the founder and chief executive of five technology start-ups, aiding in the formation of the Start-Up Factory; the associate chair for research, industry engagement and entrepreneurship in mechanical engineering; and the professor-in-charge of industry research and entrepreneurship in the College of Engineering.
Kelkar has also been recognised with several awards and honours, including an NSF CAREER award, the NASA Creativity and Innovation Program Award and a National Research Council (NRC) Fellowship.
“Atul Kelkar greatly impressed both myself and the search committee during his interview process, and I am so thrilled to offer my full support as he steps into the role with his expansive management and teaching experience,” Provost Donald Hall said.
Commenting on his appointment Kelkar said, “I am eager to collaborate with the talented faculty, staff and students, working together to inspire learning, drive innovation, shape a future of academic excellence and foster economic development of the region.”
The Indian American earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Pune, India, before earning his master’s and doctoral degrees at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia.
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login