Deepak Keshwani Named Associate Dean of Academic Programs at USU College of Engineering

The Utah State University College of Engineering has appointed Deepak Keshwani as the new associate dean for academic programs. He will also hold the rank of tenured professor in the department of Biological Engineering. Keshwani joins USU from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he most recently held a dual appointment as interim associate dean for academic pathways and graduate education in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, as well as associate professor in biological systems engineering. His appointment will take effect on February 1, 2026.

"Following an extensive national search, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Deepak Keshwani to lead our academic programs," said David Jones, dean of the College of Engineering. "His proven leadership and experience in academic administration make him exceptionally well-suited for this pivotal role."

Prior to joining USU, Keshwani has also served as director of undergraduate programs and interim director for academic pathways and learner engagement at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. During his time there, he built a strong record of developing and implementing large-scale student success initiatives—experience that will support the USU College of Engineering as it continues to grow. He also brings extensive expertise in program assessment and ABET accreditation and has experience teaching a variety of classes spanning first-year seminars to capstone design for engineering and technology students

"I am excited to join USU's College of Engineering in a time of transformation and growth," said Keshwani. "I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the students, staff and faculty and help cultivate a distinctive engineering education experience that is relevant and accessible to learners in Utah and beyond."

Keshwani earned a Ph.D. in biological and agricultural engineering, with a minor in mathematics, from North Carolina State University. He also holds both a master's and bachelor's degree in biological systems engineering from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Over his career, he has secured more than $4.3 million in research funding, including $1.6 million as lead investigator. His scholarly activities span disciplinary research in biological systems modeling, educational innovation and student success. He is a nationally recognized expert in engineering and technology education and has received numerous teaching and advising awards. Among his many honors, Keshwani was most recently recognized as the University of Nebraska's 2025 Changemaker Mentor of the Year.

As associate dean for academic programs, Keshwani brings significant experience in academic administration and a strong record of fostering innovation in teaching and learning, and academic advising. His leadership will help advance the college's mission of academic excellence and student success.

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Writer: Madeline Buskirk, madeline.buskirk@usu.edu, 435-797-7512

Contact: David Jones, david.jones@usu.edu, 435-797-2372