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Long-time UW-Madison educator and leader Remzi Arpaci-Dusseau has been named the founding dean of the College of Computing and Artificial Intelligence.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has officially announced Remzi Arpaci-Dusseau, a distinguished and long-serving educator and leader within the institution, as the founding dean of its brand-new College of Computing and Artificial Intelligence. This significant development marks the first time in 43 years that UW-Madison has established a new college. The College of Computing and Artificial Intelligence is scheduled to commence its operations on July 1, with Arpaci-Dusseau at its helm from its inception. He currently holds the positions of director for the School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences and serves as a special advisor to the provost, focusing on computing initiatives.
In his statement regarding the new role, Dean Arpaci-Dusseau conveyed his profound honor and enthusiasm for leading the college during what he described as a crucial period, given the rapid and transformative impact of artificial intelligence on contemporary society. He articulated the university's inherent responsibility to actively engage with these changes, rather than remaining a passive observer. Arpaci-Dusseau emphasized that while universities historically contribute to technological advancement, this work must persist alongside a critical examination of AI's broader implications. His vision for the college includes guiding thoughtful innovation and rigorously preparing students to not only adapt but also flourish in a world increasingly shaped by evolving technologies.
UW-Madison Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin voiced strong support for the establishment of the College of Computing and Artificial Intelligence, envisioning it as a vital central hub and invaluable resource for the entire university campus. Chancellor Mnookin commended Arpaci-Dusseau's robust and capable leadership, deeming it essential for this critical new endeavor. She elaborated on his initial responsibilities as founding dean, which encompass guiding the college through its foundational launch phase and its formative early years, including the establishment of its academic direction, core culture, and strategic partnerships. Looking ahead, Chancellor Mnookin announced that a comprehensive national search for a permanent dean would be initiated in 2028, strategically positioning the college for its subsequent phases of growth and long-term development after a period of initial stability under Arpaci-Dusseau's guidance.
The launch and sustained development of the new College of Computing and Artificial Intelligence are underpinned by substantial financial commitments. A significant portion of this funding comes from philanthropic efforts, with $100 million secured from the 'Catalyst Collective' — a dedicated group comprising alumni, prominent industry leaders, and key corporate partners who are investing in the college's early-stage success. This generous external support is further bolstered by an annual institutional investment from the university exceeding $50 million. Beyond financial resources, the college is poised for significant expansion in its human capital, with plans to recruit and hire 50 new faculty members. Many of these new faculty positions are anticipated to feature joint appointments, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and integrating computing and AI expertise across various departments and colleges within the broader university.