Clemson names founding dean for College of Science

Newsstand | Clemson University News and Stories, South Carolina

CLEMSON — Cynthia Y. Young, vice provost for Faculty Excellence and UCF Global at the University of Central Florida, has been chosen to lead the College of Science at Clemson University as its founding dean. A professor of mathematics, Young will begin on Aug. 15.
Cynthia YoungImage Credit: University of Central Florida
As an interdisciplinary scholar, Young developed mathematical models governing atmospheric effects in laser communication channels. In 2001, she was selected by the Office of Naval Research for the Young Investigator Award and, in 2007, she was selected as a fellow of the International Society of Optics and Photonics (SPIE). The author of more than 70 books and publications, Young has secured continuous federal funding exceeding $5 million since 1999.
“Attracting dynamic deans to lead our colleges is critically important as we continue our effort to be one of the very best public universities in the country,” said Clemson University President James P. Clements. “Cynthia has an exceptional track record of innovation, strategic thinking and success in leading high-performing teams. I am confident that she will build on the great work already being done in our College of Science.”
Clements also thanked Mark Leising, who has served as interim dean of the college since its inception last year. Leising, who has been a faculty member in the Clemson department of physics and astronomy since 1991 and department chair since 2011, will return to a full-time faculty role.
“Mark did an exceptional job helping launch the new College of Science when it was created last year. It was a challenging task and we appreciate all he accomplished to help lay a solid foundation for the College.”
Young joined UCF as an assistant professor of mathematics in 1997 and is a co-founder of UCF’s EXCEL program, created to increase students’ success in their first two years in STEM disciplines. Since its inception 10 years ago, the program has helped improve STEM ...

Read More