The H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISyE) announced that A. Russell Chandler III Professor Santanu Dey will serve as ISyE’s next associate chair for graduate studies (ACGS). He succeeds UPS Professor of Logistics Alan Erera, who held the position for six years. The School’s graduate programs have been ranked No. 1 by U.S. News & World Report for 29 consecutive years.

“In this role, Santanu will provide direction and oversight for all ISyE graduate students and programs, with specific focus on the doctoral programs,” said ISyE School Chair Edwin Romeijn. “I look forward to working with Santanu on ensuring continued excellence in our graduate programs, as well as exploring and implementing new initiatives for further strengthening these programs.”

“Alan did a tremendous job as ACGS,” said Dey. “I intend to carry through and build on his work on behalf of our very talented graduate students.”

Dey is particularly focused on enhancing the support ISyE Ph.D. students receive. This includes opportunities for increased financial support, as well as reinforcing areas like mental health services, which has been an expanding focus of the Institute as a whole.

“Georgia Tech is a challenging educational institution, and we need to make sure that students receive the help they need when they need it,” he noted.

While ACGS, Dey will continue to personally advise Ph.D. students on their work. He currently has nine advisees. It’s that personal connection with the graduate students that motivated him to accept this new role.

“I have always enjoyed engaging with graduate students – talking with them about their goals, their career plans, and their research,” Dey explained. “This new role will be a good way for me to continue connecting with them and helping them to achieve everything they’re working so hard for.

“In the end, universities are for the students, and I want to assist them in any way I can.”

Dey’s term as ACGS begins with the 2020 spring semester.