Award-winning researcher to begin five-year term in January
Anthony Vannelli, a professor of electrical and computer engineering and associate dean of research and external partnerships at the University of Waterloo, has been named dean of the College of Physical and Engineering Science. He begins a five-year term in January.
“Tony has incredible enthusiasm and infectious energy and brings with him a wealth of expertise as an administrator, teacher and researcher,” says provost and vice-president (academic) Maureen Mancuso, who chaired the search committee. “He has strengths in engineering, mathematics and computer science, and this unique background underpins his approach to teaching and research. It's also in keeping with Guelph's educational philosophy that emphasizes the sharing of ideas. We are delighted that he is joining U of G.”
An award-winning researcher known internationally for his work, Vannelli is the author of more than 100 journal articles and conference publications. His current research involves using advanced large-scale optimization approaches to solve integrated circuit layout problems.
A graduate of Concordia University and Waterloo, he did a post- doctoral stint at the IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center in New York before joining the University of Toronto, where he held a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council University Research Fellowship from 1984 to 1987. He joined Waterloo in 1987 and chaired the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering from 1998 to 2004.
Vannelli has also been recognized for his teaching, which he has continued to do while holding administrative positions.
The new dean says he's looking forward to coming to U of G and joining CPES.
“Guelph continues to move to a bright future by integrating newer disciplines and strategic directions into its existing well-established strengths,” he says. “I strongly believe that the physical sciences, mathematics, computing and information sciences and engineering disciplines housed in CPES are well-positioned to develop into exciting opportunities for the college and University.”
Pending Vannelli's arrival, Prof. Bob Balahura, Chemistry, is serving as interim CPES dean.
CSAHS Dean Reappointed
Prof. Alun Joseph has been reappointed to a second five-year term as dean of the College of Social and Applied Human Sciences (CSAHS). The longest-serving dean at U of G, he was first appointed in July 2000 after chairing the Department of Geography for eight years.
Joseph, who joined the University in 1978, was part of the team that brought together the College of Family and Consumer Studies and the College of Social Science to create CSAHS in 1998 and was integral to the transition process, says Mancuso. He also helped lead the planning and development of the new College of Management and Economics.
“He is simply a first-rate dean, with a very collegial leadership style, coupled with creativity, enthusiasm and deep commitment to the college and its students, faculty and alumni,” she says. “He is deeply admired and respected by his peers.”
