Dear OSU Community Members,
It is my pleasure to announce the appointment of Dr. Forrest Masters as Oregon State University’s new Kearney Dean of the College of Engineering effective July 14.
Dr. Masters, who has served as interim dean of engineering at the University of Florida since 2023, has held multiple leadership positions at the institution. He founded one of seven natural hazards engineering research facilities in the same National Science Foundation program that supports the O.H. Hinsdale Wave Research Laboratory. He also served as associate dean for research and facilities for seven years and led strategic initiatives in the Office of Research as an assistant vice president.
Currently, as interim dean, Dr. Masters leads one of the largest and most dynamic engineering colleges in the Association of American Universities (AAU), with 20 degree programs, serving more than 12,000 students. His oversight includes recruitment, development and retention for more than 700 employees, including almost 400 faculty, and $105 million in externally funded research expenditures. His portfolio also includes responsibilities for corporate engagement, fundraising, and alumni relations, and planning, design and construction for 34 facilities, as well as marketing and communications and the safe and responsible conduct of research for a broad range of government, industry, and nonprofit sponsors.
At OSU, Dr. Masters will step into the role held by Dr. Scott Ashford for more than a decade. Please join me in offering appreciation to Dr. Ashford and in welcoming Dr. Masters to the Oregon State University community.
Sincerely,
Belinda Batten
Interim Provost and Executive Vice President