Features: Dec. 3, 2001

David Spooner Named Associate Dean for Information Technology

David Spooner, acting chair and professor of computer science, has been named associate dean for information technology.

Spooner's research in database systems put him in the forefront of information technology even before it was recognized as a separate discipline.

"David is an outstanding individual for the position. He has been involved with the information technology program from its inception and he has the vision and experience to maintain Rensselaer's leadership position in this growing field," said Joseph Flaherty, dean of science.

"As one of the pivotal thrusts of the Rensselaer Plan, I believe it is imperative that we continue to shape and invest in our IT programs. By doing so we will achieve our goals of leadership in IT education and research. I look forward to working with the administration, faculty, and staff to make our IT initiatives successful," said Spooner.

Spooner has been a Rensselaer faculty member since 1981. He has served as chair of the graduate committee in computer science and chair of the undergraduate curriculum committee in information technology. He was named acting chair of computer science in May 2001 and will continue to serve as acting chair through the spring semester.

As associate dean, Spooner will evaluate and refine the B.S. and the M.S. in the IT curriculum. He also will promote IT research initiatives through the development of innovative research programs in IT. In addition, Spooner will explore the creation of a Ph.D. program in IT.

Other activities that Spooner hopes to undertake include developing student recruitment and placement strategies; initiating an Institutewide seminar series on innovative IT research at Rensselaer; developing an industrial affiliates program to support IT research and educational activities; and creating an "IT Expo" to showcase new advancements in information technologies.