Dean's Circle Connects College of Science to Industry

The College of Science has established a Dean’s Circle that includes accomplished alumni, experienced faculty and industry professionals to help the college anticipate trends, adjust curriculum and better prepare students to enter the workforce.

“Our Dean’s Circle provides a valuable link to the community that benefits both students and the companies that hire them. This is our first advisory group and we’re lucky to have such a variety of expertise to support our mission,” said Alison Baski, dean of the college.

Members support the college with an annual financial commitment and assist in acquiring funding for science programs and students. One of the group’s first activities was hosting a career panel in spring 2021.

“We all worked on the career panel and it was a great experience,” said Dean’s Circle Chair Niedre Heckman (’88, chemistry). “The Dean’s Circle is enthusiastic about helping the college. We want to give back.”

2021-22 Dean's Circle

Niedre Heckman, Chair
’88, chemistry
Takeda

Mary Mogge, Vice Chair
Cal Poly Pomona Physics Professor Emerita

Maria Alvarez
’95, master’s in computer science
Microsoft

Betty Demus
’91, microbiology
Adventist Health Tehachapi Valley
US Army (retired)

Jeffrey Eppink
’79, earth sciences
Enegis, LLC

Renee Jordan
’91, physics
KLA-Tencor Corporation

Richard Lay
’89, physics
Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Mohammad Virani
Ernest Prete Jr. Foundation