SAU names new interim science, engineering dean

Dr. Abdel Bachri, associate professor of physics at Southern Arkansas University, has been named interim dean of the College of Science and Engineering.

He is taking the position following the resignation of Dr. Scott McKay, who accepted a similar position in South Dakota.

Dr. David Lanoue, SAU provost and vice-president of academic affairs, said he was confident that the College of Science and Engineering will continue to thrive under Bachri's leadership.

Lanoue also said Bacari was “one of the most highly respected faculty members at SAU, and I look forward to working with him during the coming year to strengthen our academic programs and enhance student success.”

Bachri was named 2017 Honors Professor, and led the procession at the Spring 2017 commencement ceremonies. BACHRI He earned a bachelor of science and master of science degree degree in Physics from the University of Hassan II in Casablanca, Morocco.

He also earned a master's degree in High Energy Physics from the International Center of Theoretical Physics in Triese, Italy and a doctorate degree in Theoretical Particle Physics from Oklahoma State University. He teaches Modern Physics, Physical Optics, Analytical Mechanics and Classical Electrodynamics, along with others.

In an email, he wrote that his primary focus would be representing the view of his colleagues.

“Until we fill the position with a permanent dean, I am happy to work to optimize (our) offerings; shore up and promote our existing programs and provide a good customer service experience that will help us retain (students,)” he wrote.

Bachri began working at SAU in 2007 as an assistant professor of Physics and became associate professor in 2011. In 2014, he was named chair of the Department of Engineering/ Engineering Physics.