May 5, 2008

Chief academic officer appointed at Purdue Calumet

Ralph V. Rogers, Jr., who has served since 2003 at East Carolina University as founding dean and professor in the College of Technology and Computer Science, begins his appointment July 1 as Purdue Calumet’s Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

Rogers has held wide-ranging, senior level administrative and faculty positions during a 30-year career in higher and post-secondary education. He succeeds Nabil Ibrahim, who resigned late last year to become Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University in the United Arab Emirates.

"We are excited to have someone of Ralph's accomplishments and passion for the type of engaged education we have embraced at Purdue Calumet," Chancellor Howard Cohen said. "During the interview process, he impressed our campus community with his energy, enthusiasm and vision. He will be a great fit as our chief academic officer."

While at East Carolina, Rogers has helped organize and implement strategic direction for the College of Technology and Computer Science, while leading its four academic departments and nearly 100 faculty and support staff. He also has overseen three-year student enrollment growth in the School from 700 to 2,000. Additionally, he has designed, proposed and implemented a general engineering program; directed an extensive graduate and undergraduate distance learning program; and collaborated with university and area leaders to advance regional economic development. 
 
"It is a tremendous opportunity to be part of a great university," Rogers said about his appointment. "I am impressed with (Purdue) Calumet's focus as a regional university, its engagement in the community, its commitment to meeting the needs of students and its relationship with industry in advancing economic development. (Purdue) Calumet impresses me with the manner in which it provides learning opportunities as
an access university. Its commitment to experiential learning is very exciting."
  
Rogers' background also includes administrative and faculty positions at Old Dominion University and the University of Central Florida, as well as faculty appointments at Ohio University, Piedmont Virginia Community College and the University of Rio Grande/Rio Grande Community College.

Additionally, his background offers extensive research activities, related partnerships, publications, presentations and service. He also has received several teaching excellence awards.

The Ironton, Ohio native earned baccalaureate and master’s degrees at Ohio University in electrical engineering and industrial and systems engineering, respectively. He also holds a Ph.D. in systems engineering from the University of Virginia.