HARRISBURG, PA — Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is pleased to announce that the four interim deans appointed to lead its academic schools have been selected to continue permanently in their roles. The appointments reflect the University’s confidence in the leadership, vision, and impact each dean has brought to their school since the academic restructuring was introduced in 2025.
The four permanent deans are:
Dr. Roozbeh Sadeghian — Dean, School of Analytics and Computational Sciences
The School of Analytics and Computational Sciences prepares students to lead in data-driven industries. Spanning programs in Analytics, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Data Science, the school serves sectors where computational methods are reshaping how decisions are made: from healthcare analytics to financial technology, logistics, and national defense.
Dr. Charles Palmer — Dean, School of Applied Media and Innovation
The School of Applied Media and Innovation sits at the intersection of creativity and technology. Home to programs in Interactive Media, Game Design, Business and Digital Marketing, Learning Technologies, and User Experience (UX) Design, the school prepares students for careers across the digital media, entertainment, education technology, and creative technology industries. It also houses the Department of General Education, ensuring that all HU students share a strong set of core competencies at graduation.
Dr. Thomas Wise — Dean, School of Engineering and Management
The School of Engineering and Management bridges technical expertise with organizational leadership. With programs in Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics, Esports Management, Information Systems Engineering, Project Management, and related fields, the school serves diverse industries through infrastructure modernization, digital transformation, and next-generation supply chain management.
Dr. Catherine Santai — Dean, School of Health & Science
The School of Health and Science addresses some of the nation’s most pressing workforce needs in healthcare and the life sciences. Encompassing programs in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Forensics, Exercise Science, Healthcare Informatics, Nursing, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Physical Therapy, the school partners with regional hospitals, research institutions, and health organizations – including its collaboration with UPMC on an accelerated nursing program to address Pennsylvania’s nursing shortage.
“These four faculty members stepped into their roles at a pivotal moment for Harrisburg University, and each has demonstrated the kind of leadership that moves an institution forward,” said Dr. Kevin Purcell, Provost and Chief Academic Officer. “Their expertise, commitment to collaboration, and considerable dedication to our students have been instrumental in bringing our updated school structure to life. Making these appointments permanent is a well-earned next step, and I look forward to the work ahead as we continue building something exceptional together.”
The four schools were established in 2025 as part of a broader academic restructuring that seeks to align faculty expertise and institutional resources around major market clusters in the US economy. Each school serves as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, workforce-aligned curriculum development, and expanded partnerships with industry.
# # #
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
# # #
