Newest dean to head Purdue Polytechnic Institute
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Daniel Castro-Lacouture was recently announced to be the new dean of the Purdue Polytechnic Institute as of June 1.
Castro-Lacouture, a professor and administrator at Georgia Institute of Technology, is a professor of building construction as well as the executive director of the professional master’s program in occupational safety and health, according to a recent release from Purdue.
Castro-Lacouture also served as chair of the School of Building Construction at Georgia Tech for over 11 years. During this time, he oversaw the creation of six new academic programs, including the master’s in occupational safety and health program.
This program was the first online graduate degree within the "College of Design in partnership with Georgia Tech Professional Education, the master of real estate development and the PhD with a major in building construction," according to the release.
“Dr. Castro-Lacouture is an outstanding choice to lead the Polytechnic Institute as we continue to rethink and redesign how students can master the competencies required in our evolving innovation marketplace,” Mitch Daniels, Purdue president, said. “I know the college and all of its students will benefit from their new dean’s experience and energy.”
Castro-Lacouture himself commented on how he looks forward to returning to Purdue after earning his PhD in civil engineering in 2003. He also previously served as a teaching assistant in the Division of Construction Engineering and Management.
“The current situation and outlook of the Polytechnic Institute, featuring talented and caring people, state-of-the-art facilities, and an inspiring mission, convinced me that it was the right time to become the next dean,” Castro-Lacouture said in the release. “I am truly grateful for this opportunity, as I could not wish for a better return to Purdue to build upon fond memories of a great education and an exceptional sense of community.”
Castro-Lacouture will be responsible for working with college faculty, staff and students to further the development and implementation of strategic plans for future innovations and excellence in all "mission areas."
This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Newest dean to head Purdue Polytechnic Institute
