A future built on wonder and possibility

I started my role of dean on June 16, 2025—a day that felt like no other in my lifetime. I felt an entirely new sense of wonder. It was, quite honestly, among the most extraordinary moments of my life, not only because of the honor of leading this remarkable college, but because of what it represents: the future, overflowing with possibility and the potential to transform lives.

It also felt like coming home. Two decades ago, I was a graduate student here. There were so many opportunities—and newly arrived from India, I seized them all! My experiences—working in the lab with fellow students, with my advisor, and all of the fun I had on campus and in and around Madison—ignited my deep passion for our college.

The past nine months have further energized and inspired me. I’ve met thousands of people who are passionate about our college. I’ve heard their ideas, and I’ve learned what motivates them. I’ve witnessed moments that remind me why engineering matters so deeply. Let me share just one especially meaningful example. At my first winter commencement as dean, I watched our UW-Madison graduates cross the stage, full of pride, joy and big dreams. I listened as two of the event’s speakers—graduating chemical engineering senior Jeeva Premkumar and nuclear engineering alumna Grace Stanke Vanderhei—emphasized the power of caring, curiosity and perseverance. Their stories and aspirations reaffirmed what I believe: Engineering is not just a discipline. It is a place where grand ideas become a force for good.

Looking forward, our college vision is bold; our aim, to galvanize technical progress into public benefit. Through an appreciative inquiry strategic planning process that invites voices from across our community, we are charting a course for 2030 and beyond. Already, more than 500 stakeholders have shared their insights, and we are eager for many more to join us. When the time comes, I hope you will add your voices to this important conversation! This collaborative effort will shape a plan that channels our excellence into impact.

This plan is still taking shape, but I can also say that growth is central to our vision. We already are expanding our enrollment: In fall 2025, for example, we welcomed one of the largest incoming undergraduate classes in our college’s history, and we’ve added 18 more exceptional people to an outstanding body of faculty that’s now nearly 230 strong. Each new student and professor contributes fresh energy, ideas and enthusiasm, igniting curiosity and fueling innovation that will ripple far beyond our campus.

After years of planning, our long-anticipated Phillip A. Levy Engineering Center is beginning to take shape. Its footings and foundations are underway. Later this year, its structure will begin to emerge; it is a tangible symbol of progress and promise—one that prompts spontaneous learning opportunities and fosters ongoing curiosity.

Building on the Wisconsin Idea, we are increasing our reach beyond campus. On June 1 and 2, 2026, for example, we will host a manufacturing summit at Lambeau Field, deepening trust and forging partnerships that strengthen Wisconsin’s manufacturing ecosystem. As a coordinated research arm and educational partner for this vital industry, we will help ensure that our state—and our nation—remain competitive in a rapidly evolving world. 

Through everything we do, gratitude is our constant companion. I know it is mine. Our college is a steward of your trust—and we take that responsibility seriously. Every achievement, every milestone, every life changed is possible because of your confidence and support. Together, we are building not just a college, but a community committed to shaping a better future.

The wonder I felt on my first day as dean has only grown. And as we look ahead, I invite you to share in that sense of possibility—because the future of our College of Engineering is nothing short of extraordinary.

On, Wisconsin!

Top photo: Grace (Stanke) Vanderhei, Jeeva Premkumar and Grainger Dean of the College of Engineering, Devesh Ranjan during the winter commencement ceremony held in the Kohl Center at the University of Wisconsin–Madison on Dec. 14, 2025. Submitted photo.