Dear Oregon State Colleagues,
It is my pleasure to announce the appointment of Dr. Rob Stone as Oregon State’s next executive director of the Impact Studio, effective on April 1.
Launched by the Office of the Provost in 2018, the Impact Studio uses best practice approaches for Oregon State to respond creatively and nimbly to fast changing trends in higher education and engage innovators to cultivate a portfolio of initiatives that advance the university’s strategic plan and improve financial strength.
Dr. Stone, professor in OSU’s School of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (MIME), recently completed a four-year assignment as director of the National Science Foundation’s Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation. Prior to this role, Rob served as school head for MIME. His research activities are in the broad area of engineering design with particular focus on concept generation methods and align with the ideation and product development cycle that the Impact Studio uses. Under Rob’s leadership the Impact Studio will continue to work with colleagues across the university as well as with external partners to consider and develop new ventures.
Please join me in congratulating Rob and thanking Rich Duncombe for founding the Impact Studio and leading it so capably for the past several years. Rich will continue at the university for a period of time, with a reduced level of activity, helping to ensure a smooth transition in the Impact Studio and providing leadership in the area of economic development and industrial relations.
Sincerely,
Edward Feser
Provost and Executive Vice President