Jennifer Shepherd Named Dean of School of Engineering and Applied Science

Gonzaga University has named Jennifer Shepherd dean of its School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS), following a competitive national search.

For Gonzaga, the announcement marks both continuity and momentum for SEAS.

Shepherd brings to the role a long-standing commitment to the University and a leadership style shaped by nearly three decades of service, scholarship, and mission-centered collaboration. Since stepping into the role of SEAS interim dean in the 2024-2025 academic year, she has provided steady guidance to one of Gonzaga's most complex academic units - overseeing five departments, 10 undergraduate programs, three graduate programs, more than 850 students, and a rapidly expanding portfolio of research and innovation.

"I am honored to be entrusted with leading the School of Engineering and Applied Science," Shepherd says.

During her interim tenure, SEAS reached several critical milestones. Under Shepherd's leadership, the school prepared for its 2026 ABET accreditation review while also strengthening partnerships with industry leaders and benefactors who support cutting-edge facilities and experiential learning opportunities for students. She played a central role in advancing interdisciplinary research efforts, including the continued development of the newly opened Patrick Ferro Center for Materials Research and the Biomedical Engineering Laboratory Suite - initiatives bolstered by philanthropy and multiple recent federal research awards.

Throughout her time as interim dean, Shepherd was focused on inclusive excellence, faculty and staff development, and student-centered learning, ensuring that the school's growth aligns with Gonzaga's Jesuit humanistic mission.

"Dr. Shepherd is a collaborative, mission-driven leader whose deep understanding of Gonzaga and experience working closely with the School of Engineering and Applied Science over the past three years has already made a meaningful impact," says Gonzaga Interim Provost Mia Bertagnolli, noting Shepherd's year-long stint as interim chair of mechanical engineering in addition to her two years as the school's interim dean.

Shepherd's roots at Gonzaga run deep. She joined the faculty in 1998 and is currently a professor of chemistry and biochemistry. She has served the University in a wide range of leadership roles, including multiple terms as chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, interim chair of Mechanical Engineering, and Faculty Fellow for Research Infrastructure in the Office of the Provost. She has also contributed to University governance through leadership roles on the Academic Council, Faculty Senate, and the University Rank and Tenure Committee. Across disciplines and administrative responsibilities, she has earned a reputation as a collaborative, thoughtful leader - one who balances academic rigor with operational effectiveness and mission-driven decision-making.

An accomplished scholar and educator, Shepherd earned her Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles, and holds advanced and undergraduate degrees from UCLA and Oregon State University. Her research has been supported by major federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF CAREER Award) and the National Institutes of Health (AREA Award). She has also been recognized for her excellence in teaching, research, and service, receiving both the Gonzaga University Exemplary Faculty Award and Professional Contributions Award.

As Gonzaga looks to the future of engineering and applied science education, Shepherd's appointment signals a continued commitment to preparing graduates who are technically skilled, ethically grounded, and ready to serve a rapidly changing world.