© 2024 KRWG
News that Matters.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

NMSU Names Interim Dean For College Of Engineering

  Steven Stochaj has been selected as interim dean for the New Mexico State University College of Engineering. An electrical engineering distinguished professor, Stochaj will begin his term on Aug. 1. He replaces Ricardo Jacquez, who is retiring this month. 

“Dr. Stochaj articulated a positive vision for the college during this time of transition, and he enjoys a broad base of support from college faculty and staff,” said Daniel J. Howard, NMSU executive vice president and provost. “Dr. Stochaj’s exceptional commitment to our land-grant mission of teaching, research and service has given him a strong foundation to lead the College of Engineering. He is dedicated to teaching and advising, and has been awarded the Roush Award, the Excellence in Advising Award and the Outstanding Faculty Award from Chicano Programs.”

During his more than 20-year tenure, Stochaj has over 60 journal publications, including 16 papers with more than 100 citations. Stochaj’s research centers on particle astrophysics and solar physics. As a principal investigator, he has obtained more than $3 million in funding and over $7 million as a co-PI. 

In his tenure at NMSU, Stochaj has served on numerous university-level committees, including the University Budget Committee, Advocates for Scholarly Teaching, the College of Engineering Promotion and Tenure Committee along with search committees for the university’s president and provost. He is the College of Engineering liaison for Digital Measures. He also has chaired the University Teaching Council, the Research and Economic Development Committee and the University Research Council. 

Outside the classroom, Stochaj and his dog, Striking, have been responsible for continuing the Wonder Dog tradition at home NMSU football games for the past three seasons. He also has trained the 7-year-old border collie to be a wilderness search dog for the state as Striking is a member of the Mesilla Valley Search and Rescue team.

Information from NMSU