Fan named head of the OSU School of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Media Contact: Kristi Wheeler | Manager, CEAT Marketing and Communications | 405-744-5831 | kristi.wheeler@okstate.edu

Dr. Guoliang Fan has been appointed department head for the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Oklahoma State University, effective Nov. 1, 2024, pending approval by the OSU A&M Board of Regents.

Fan, the Cal and Marilyn Vogt Professor of Engineering in ECE, has been the interim department head since February 2024.

Fan received his bachelor's degree in automation engineering at Xian University of Technology in 1993, his master's in computer engineering at Xidian University in 1996 and his Ph.D. in electrical engineering at the University of Delaware in 2001.

Fan then began his career at OSU in 2001 as an assistant professor. Over the years, he has received numerous accolades, including the NSF CAREER award, Halliburton Excellent Young Teacher award and the OSU Regents Distinguished Research Award. His professional achievements include co-editing a book, authoring many journal and conference papers, and supervising 15 Ph.D. and 16 M.S. (with thesis) students. 

Dr. Hanchen Huang, dean of the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology, expressed great confidence in Fan.

“As the interim head, Dr. Fan has demonstrated his collaborative leadership skills. Working with faculty and other stakeholders, he is instrumental in developing the inter-college Joint M.S. in Artificial Intelligence program,” Huang said.

Fan’s vision for ECE is encapsulated in three core principles: Engage, Communicate and Empower — collectively referred to as the “ECE spirit.”  

Fan notes for engagement the goal is providing various platforms and initiatives to foster interactions that bring individuals together to be more informed and involved.   

Communication encourages exchanging ideas and experiences, leading to open dialogue and resulting in meaningful conversations and effective mentorship.   

Finally, empower focuses on offering opportunities and support for members to pursue their passions, and enhance their professional and technical skills.

"I embrace the principles of servant leadership, which focus on putting the needs of others first,” Fan said.  

This philosophy echoes Simon Sinek’s words, “Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.”   

Fan's leadership is driven by the 3I Style (Interaction, Integration and Innovation) and 3T Values (Teamwork, Transparency and Trust).  

Fan has already implemented or is in the process of implementing key initiatives to foster a supportive and dynamic environment for both faculty and students. Some of these initiatives include the Faculty Mentorship Program, the ECE GTA Training Day, the ECE Undergraduate Miller Research Scholar Program, the ECE Vogt Lunchtime Colloquium, the department-matched Graduate Research and Teaching Assistantship (GRTA) Program for Ph.D. recruitment along with pre-GTA training, committee restructuring and monthly meetings with student leaders.

Under Fan's leadership, the ECE department is poised for growth and success. The department boasts a strong faculty team, with several members recognized for their outstanding research and teaching contributions.

While the department has made significant strides, Fan acknowledges the challenges ahead. Faculty retention, graduate enrollment and cultural integration are key areas that require ongoing attention. However, with a clear vision and a commitment to excellence, Fan is confident that the ECE department will continue to thrive and make impactful contributions to the field.  

Fan's initiatives reflect his dedication to creating an engaging, communicative and empowering environment for all members of the ECE community. As the department moves forward, these initiatives will be crucial in shaping its future.

“Serving as interim head of ECE from February to October 2024 has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my 23-year career,” Fan said. “With the unwavering support of our faculty, staff and the CEAT administration, I am confident in my ability to continue promoting growth and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering.”