[CCoE Notice] Sent on behalf of Dean Tedesco: UH Katy Engineering Programs Leadership

[Knudsen, Rachel W]

Sent on behalf of Dean Tedesco







Dear Cullen College Faculty and Staff,


It is my pleasure to announce that Dr. JR Rao will assume the position of Interim Associate Dean for Engineering Programs at the University of Houston Katy Campus (UH Katy) effective March 1st.


Dr. Rao brings nearly 30 years of experience with him as he embarks on this new endeavor with our college. The successful launch of our engineering programs in Katy is key in positioning ourselves as a leader in engineering education, and Dr. Rao is more than prepared to spearhead this effort.


Dr. Rao joined our faculty in 1990 after receiving his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan. He has a wealth of experience with implementing important new initiatives at the Cullen College and has held several leadership positions. In addition to conducting research and teaching extensively at both the graduate and undergraduate level, Dr. Rao has also been a member of the Undergraduate Committee of the UH Faculty Senate and served as Associate Director of the Division of Undergraduate Studies and Student Success. Currently Dr. Rao serves as both the Associate Chair of the mechanical engineering department and as the Director of Online Programs and Extension Services. During his time as Director of Online Programs and Extension services, Dr. Rao successfully implemented and launched a series of fully online master’s degrees and certificate programs. These online programs have been key in our ability to meet the greater Houston area’s need for engineering education.


In his new position, Dr. Rao will oversee the successful growth and implementation of our engineering programs in Katy. Once the new Katy campus officially opens its doors to the public this fall, a new roster of both undergraduate and graduate UH Engineering programs will come online, and I can think of no one better than Dr. Rao to lead this important initiative.


Dr. Phaneendra Kondapi, who currently serves as Director of Engineering Programs in Katy, will continue to support the Cullen College’s expansion and will assume the position of Interim Assistant Dean for Engineering Programs at UH Katy, also effective March 1st.


Please join me in welcoming and congratulating them both in their new roles.


Thank you and all the best,


Joseph W. Tedesco Ph.D., P.E., F. ASCE

Elizabeth D. Rockwell Dean

Cullen College of Engineering
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