USF names new dean for the Office of Graduate Studies

By Tara Centeno, Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President

The University of South Florida announced the appointment of Derek Wildman as the new dean of the Office of Graduate Studies, bringing to the role a deep commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, mentorship and student success

Wildman is an internationally recognized scholar, researcher and academic leader who has advanced scientific discovery and student success through his work in genomics, public health and graduate education. A tenured professor in the USF College of Public Health, he has led major federally funded research initiatives, published extensively in leading journals and built a distinguished record of mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.

"As USF continues to expand its research enterprise and national impact, graduate education will play a critical role in preparing the next generation of scholars, researchers and leaders," said USF Provost and Executive Vice President Prasant Mohapatra. "Dr. Wildman's experience as a distinguished researcher and collaborative leader makes him exceptionally well-positioned to strengthen graduate education at USF and advance our aspirations as a leading public research university and member of the Association of American Universities."

As dean of graduate studies, Wildman will provide strategic leadership for graduate education and postdoctoral affairs across the university. He will work collaboratively with colleges and academic units to strengthen graduate recruitment, student success, academic excellence, professional development and career outcomes, while building a coordinated infrastructure that supports USF's academic enterprise.

"I am honored to serve as dean of graduate studies at the University of South Florida," Wildman said. "Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars are essential to the university's research, innovation and academic mission. I look forward to working with our faculty, staff and students to create an exceptional graduate experience that supports discovery, scholarly achievement and career success."