Robert M. Block, previously the dean of academics at the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School, was recently hired as assistant dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Science.
R. “Dan” Dandapani, dean, College of Engineering and Applied Science, announced Block’s appointment following a national search. He began his new position April 15.
As assistant dean, Block will lead strategic processes to support the college’s research mission, graduate program development and enrollment growth.
Since 2011, Block served as dean of academics for the Air Force Academy Preparatory School, a one-year program of math, science and English designed to prepare cadet candidates for the rigor of becoming an Air Force Academy cadet. Previously, he served as assistant and associate professor in the Department of Mathematics at the Air Force Academy and in numerous positions as an active duty member of the Air Force during a 22-year career. Now retired, Block achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel.
He has earned numerous awards from both the military and private organizations including AFSPC Scientist of the Year, the USAFA Department of Mathematics Outstanding Science and Engineering Educator Award and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education Professor of the Year Award.
He earned a bachelor’s degree from the Air Force Academy in operations research, a master’s degree in operations research from Georgia Institute of Technology and Ph.D. in business administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Block replaces Joe Swaty who accepted a position with another university.
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