Mercer Times

Andrea Goldsmith, the current dean of Princeton University's School of Engineering and Applied Science, has been appointed as the next president of Stony Brook University. Her new role will commence on August 1, 2025. The State University of New York (SUNY) Board of Trustees confirmed her appointment during a meeting held on February 19.

Goldsmith holds the Arthur LeGrand Doty Professorship in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Princeton and has served as dean since September 2020 after moving from Stanford University. During her tenure, she oversaw significant growth within the engineering school. Faculty numbers increased by 29% to reach 189 members, Ph.D. enrollment rose by 31% to a total of 849 students, undergraduate enrollment grew by 22% reaching 1,829 students, and annual sponsored research expenditures increased by 24%, amounting to $90 million.

Under her leadership, Goldsmith played a crucial role in establishing the Omenn-Darling Bioengineering Institute and initiated interdisciplinary research projects in fields such as robotics, blockchain technology, wireless technologies, and artificial intelligence. She also enhanced corporate engagement efforts within the school and launched "Design for Impact," a program aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Princeton President Christopher L. Eisgruber expressed his appreciation for Goldsmith's contributions: “Andrea Goldsmith is a bold, visionary, and entrepreneurial leader who is committed to academic excellence and to facilitating education and research that enhances people’s lives.”

Reflecting on her time at Princeton, Goldsmith said: “It has been a tremendous pleasure and honor to serve as Princeton’s dean of engineering. I am very proud of everything we have accomplished.” She acknowledged the support from faculty members and alumni which helped achieve new levels of excellence during her deanship.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Goldsmith is recognized as an expert in wireless communications with numerous accolades including holding 38 patents. She founded two successful companies and is associated with several prestigious organizations such as the National Academy of Engineering.

Goldsmith's departure prompts Provost Jennifer Rexford to initiate a search for her successor with hopes that a new dean will be appointed by the start of the next academic year.