Following an extensive internal search, Dr. Adam Ward has been named Interim Associate Dean of Academics for the College of Agricultural Sciences (CAS) at Oregon State University, effective November 13.
Dr. Ward is a full professor and currently serves as the Department Head of Biological & Ecological Engineering within CAS. He is an experienced administrator, having held leadership roles in the development and implementation of multiple academic programs, strategic planning for schools and universities, and managing teams in higher education settings. His work also focuses on improving outcomes for a diverse body of students and staff members.
As a researcher, Dr. Ward is a hydrologist who studies the transport of nutrients, pollutants, energy, and water through landscapes, as well as the human and ecological consequences of their storage, fluxes, and transformations. He holds a PhD from Penn State University in Civil Engineering and completed a Fulbright Fellowship in Birmingham, England, where he studied rivers as part of earth’s critical zone, working to better manage rivers to balance societal and natural functions.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Adam Ward as our Interim Associate Dean of Academics,” said Dr. Staci Simonich, Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences. “His background in program development, strategic leadership, and commitment to improving student and staff outcomes make him an excellent fit for this interim role.”
Special thanks go to Ricardo Mata-González for his impactful service as Associate Dean of Academics since 2020, and service to CAS since 2007. His commitment to embracing diverse perspectives and welcoming students from all backgrounds to agricultural sciences and natural resources has been one of his highest priorities and a lasting contribution to the college.