A New Chapter for the College of Engineering, Physics, and Computing

A Message from the Provost

Dear Alumni and Friends,

On behalf of The Catholic University of America, I am delighted to share that, effective July 1, 2026, J. Steven Brown, Ph.D., has been appointed dean of the College of Engineering, Physics, and Computing.

During the past year as interim dean, Steve has provided outstanding leadership during a transformative period in the college's history. He has already strengthened the college's research profile, improved faculty resources, advanced important operational initiatives, and fostered greater collaboration across engineering, physics, and computing.

Steve brings a transformational vision for the college, combined with a deep love for our Catholic mission, extensive knowledge of the University and its academic enterprise, and the analytical insight needed to guide the college as it continues to grow in excellence and impact.

A member of the Catholic University faculty for nearly three decades, Steve has served the University in numerous leadership roles, including senior vice provost for academic administration and dean of graduate studies, chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and associate dean for the School of Engineering. An MIT-trained mechanical engineer, he is an internationally recognized scholar in thermodynamics and refrigeration technologies, a fellow of ASHRAE, and an award-winning teacher.

Please join me in congratulating Dean Brown on his appointment. I know the college is well positioned for an exciting future under his leadership, and I look forward to seeing all that our faculty, students, alumni, and partners will accomplish together.

Sincerely,

Aaron Dominguez

Executive Vice President and Provost

A Message from Dean J. Steven Brown

Dear Alumni and Friends,

I am deeply honored to continue serving the College of Engineering, Physics, and Computing as dean. Thank you for the encouragement, confidence, and friendship you have shown throughout this past year. It has been one of the greatest privileges of my career to lead this remarkable community.

The past year has been one of extraordinary momentum. Together, we successfully united engineering, physics, and computing into a single college, strengthened our research enterprise, expanded partnerships across the University and beyond, and continued preparing students to become exceptional engineers, scientists, and computing professionals who will lead with both technical excellence and integrity.

These accomplishments belong to an entire community. They reflect the dedication of our faculty and staff, the energy and creativity of our students, the guidance of our Board of Visitors, and the steadfast commitment of alumni and friends like you. Thank you for investing your time, expertise, encouragement, and generosity in the future of this college and the greater mission of Catholic University

As I begin this new chapter, my excitement for what lies ahead has only grown.

The pace of scientific and technological change continues to accelerate. Artificial intelligence, advanced computing, biomedical innovation, energy systems, quantum science, and space exploration are reshaping our world in profound ways. At Catholic University, we have a distinctive opportunity to educate graduates who possess not only technical expertise, but also the wisdom, ethical formation, and commitment to human dignity needed to ensure these advances truly serve the common good.

This vision continues to guide every aspect of our work.

We will continue investing in our students and faculty, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, expanding research that addresses society's most pressing challenges, deepening partnerships with industry, government, and alumni, and building upon the distinctive strengths that make our college unique within Catholic higher education.

Just as importantly, we will continue cultivating a community where every student is known, every faculty member is supported, and every member of the college is encouraged to pursue excellence in service to others.

I remain convinced that our greatest opportunities are still ahead, and I hope you will continue to be part of that journey.

Whether by mentoring students, offering internships, partnering in research, serving on one of our advisory councils, supporting scholarships and innovation, attending alumni events, or simply staying connected, your engagement strengthens this college and enriches the experience of every student we serve.

Thank you once again for your confidence and friendship. I look forward to building the future of the College of Engineering, Physics, and Computing together.

With gratitude,

J. Steven Brown, Ph.D.

Dean, College of Engineering, Physics, and Computing

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