Todd Andel has been named dean of the School of Computing at the University of South Alabama. Andel has served as chair and professor of computer science and will assume the dean role effective May 15.
“Dr. Andel brings visionary leadership to the School of Computing with an emphasis on supporting faculty as they focus on student recruitment and success, expanding research opportunities and engaging with community partners,” said Andi Kent, executive vice president and provost at USA.
Andel has been at USA since 2012. Prior to that, he served as the computer science and engineering division chief at the Air Force Institute of Technology.
The school offers majors in computer science, information systems, information technology ad health informatics, along with graduate programs. It has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
“I stated during my interview process the vision to increase our enrollment by 50%,” said Andel. “This is a very aggressive goal that will require many initiatives focused on recruiting and retention, as well as the introduction of new academic programs to be responsive to industry and government needs.”
Andel holds a Doctor in Philosophy in computer science from Florida State University.
Andel succeeds J. Harold Pardue in the deanship. Pardue has served as interim dean in addition to his roles as dean of the Graduate School and associate vice president for Academic Affairs.