EIU Media Relations

EIU Names Interim Dean of Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Sciences

Mahyar Izadi has been named interim dean of Eastern Illinois University's Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Sciences, effective Oct. 1.

Izadi, who arrived at Eastern in 1984 and currently serves as chair of the School of Technology, replaces Diane Hoadley, who recently accepted the role of dean of the College of Business at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire.

"Dr. Izadi has a lengthy and proven record of leadership as chair of the School of Technology, and he understands well the varied mission of the Lumpkin College. He is well qualified to lead the college in achieving its mission during the coming year," said EIU Provost Blair Lord.

Izadi was chosen following an internal search in which university faculty/staff members were encouraged to participate by submitting comments and feedback. EIU President Bill Perry said he was satisfied with the process that resulted in two "very strong candidates" for the interim position.

"I was very pleased with the meetings we had with faculty and staff and with the information we gathered as to what they believed to be the most important attributes of an acting dean," Perry said. "In addition, I received input via e-mail and regular mail regarding the candidates."

For the past 11 years, Izadi has served as chair of Eastern's School of Technology, with the number of faculty and students in that area nearly doubling during his tenure. Previously, he served as coordinator of the Industrial Technology Program.

Izadi has extensive background in developing lasting relationships with Illinois community colleges, international partners, and the business and industry community. He served as president of the university and research divisions of the Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering. He also served as the team chair for nine out of 13 ATMAE accreditation visits to colleges and universities.

"It is truly an honor for me to serve the entire faculty, staff and students of the Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Sciences," he said of his new appointment. "LCBAS is well known for its quality of academic programs, research and units that provide public service. During the next several months, I plan to work very closely with the Schools of Business, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Technology, and the Department of Military Science, on their respective accreditation, curriculum development and fundraising issues."

With the appointment of Izadi complete, Lord will now turn his attention toward the naming of an interim chair for the School of Technology and beginning the search for a permanent dean for LCBAS -- a process he expects to begin this fall. Lord said he hopes to have a permanent dean in place on or near July 1, 2011.