UTSA appoints interim dean of College of AI, Cyber and Computing as national search continues

MAY 20, 2025 — UTSA Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Heather Shipley today announced the appointment of Fred Martin as interim dean of the College of AI, Cyber and Computing. Martin, professor and current chair of the Department of Computer Science, will assume his duties effective June 1 in preparation for the college’s official launch in Fall 2025.

“Dr. Martin brings both passion and experience to this role, along with a deep understanding of the college’s vision,” said Shipley. “He has played a key role in shaping the new college as part of the initiative task force and will offer steady, thoughtful leadership as we move toward its launch. I’m grateful for his willingness to serve in this capacity while the national search for a founding dean continues.”

Martin joined UTSA in 2023 following a 20-year career at University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he was promoted full professor in 2017. He holds a B.S. in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering and a Ph.D. in Media Arts and Sciences, all from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

“Dr. Martin brings both passion and experience to this role, along with a deep understanding of the college’s vision.”

At UTSA, in addition to his administrative role, Martin co-teaches Developing AI Tools for K-12 and leads the Engaging Computing Group, a research team focused on creating novel technologies for introducing K-12 students and teachers to computer science, artificial intelligence, machine learning and virtual reality. They have designed robotics construction kits, a collaborative data visualization platform and a virtual reality programming environment.

Last month, Shipley announced the appointment of chairs for the four academic departments that comprise the College of AI, Cyber and Computing. An interim chair to fill in for Martin in the Department of Computer Science will be announced soon. Other chairs include Ram Krishnan, Department of Computer Engineering; Charles Liu, Department of Information Systems and Cybersecurity; and Min Wang, Department of Statistics and Data Science.

The national search for the founding dean of the College of AI, Cyber and Computing will continue with the assistance of SP&A Executive Search and the search advisory committee, with the committee expected to reconvene in the fall.

Launching in Fall 2025, the UTSA College of AI, Cyber and Computing will integrate disciplines in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, computing, and data science across four specialized departments, fostering collaboration and innovation. With an anticipated enrollment of over 5,000 students, the college will offer cutting-edge academic programs designed to meet workforce demands, strengthening UTSA’s leadership in emerging technologies. Located in downtown San Antonio, the college is positioned as a cornerstone of regional economic growth and technological advancement.

— Rebecca Luther