Meet Dennis Assanis: UC Santa Barbara’s New Chancellor and Visionary Leader in Science and Engineering

Dennis Assanis is the new chancellor of UC Santa Barbara, stepping in at a pivotal moment for the university. This esteemed appointment comes after a long tenure under former Chancellor Henry T. Yang, who left a strong legacy.

Assanis previously led the University of Delaware, where research funding surged to $466 million, focusing on critical areas like health and clean hydrogen innovations. His efforts there caught the attention of the UC regents, who praised his commitment to student success and academic excellence.

UC President Michael V. Drake, who read his remarks during the announcement, highlighted Assanis’s impressive record in expanding research and innovation. Notably, Assanis had a significant impact during his nine years at Delaware, launching initiatives that brought in new tenants and research projects aimed at developing vaccines and pharmaceuticals.

Taking helm on September 1, Assanis faces challenges, including a hiring freeze and budget cuts that are shaking the UC system. There’s also a pressing need for student housing, a growing concern as enrollment pressure mounts. His annual salary will be $880,000, slightly higher than Yang’s, reflecting the responsibilities he now carries.

In his remarks from Greece, Assanis expressed that he sees higher education as more than just a pathway to opportunity; it’s a community that fosters motivation and progress. He’s committed to promoting a culture of excellence while ensuring that education remains accessible and affordable.

Comparatively, UC Santa Barbara has grown in both size and reputation over the years. The undergraduate acceptance rate has dropped to 32.9% from nearly 70% in the mid-1990s, aligning with the university’s heightened selectivity and prestige today. Currently, about 23,000 undergraduates attend, up from 15,525 when Yang began his term.

As Assanis embarks on this leadership journey, his experience and vision may shape the future of UC Santa Barbara, navigating the complexities of modern higher education challenges while building on the foundations laid by his predecessor.



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