Starting in July 2025, Dr. Jason Zara led GW’s School of Engineering & Applied Science (GW Engineering) through a complex year as Interim Dean while Dean John Lach served as Interim Provost. As Zara returns to his former role, now with the new title of Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, the GW Engineering community thanks Zara for stepping up to steer our school and support all its members.
As Interim Dean, Zara’s leadership approach was never about simply holding down the fort–it was about keeping GW Engineering’s momentum strong. Complexities such as a challenging budget environment, national headwinds, and a flood in the Science & Engineering Hall (SEH) didn’t make it easy. However, he provided the continuity and steady leadership that, in the words of Ava Edge, Director of Inclusive Excellence, “balanced difficult institutional realities with the need to continue moving the school forward.”
Zara’s many years of administrative leadership at GW Engineering, combined with his premier scholarship and excellence in the classroom as a professor of biomedical engineering and his service as a mentor to generations of students, set him up for success in this work. To strengthen the school’s infrastructure, he onboarded a new Director of Communications and Marketing, oversaw the resolution of the notoriously persistent elevator issues at the SEH, and navigated the ABET reaccreditation process.
Brittany Wright, Matt Hansen-Kuder, and Erin Vogt from GW Engineering’s Office of Graduate Admissions and Student Services summarized his impact, saying, “Dr. Zara expertly navigated complex situations with a student-centered focus and respect for policy, bringing levity and clarity through his great sense of humor. Just as important, he brings a genuine passion for connecting with students.”
Zara supported the launch of several innovative student initiatives, including iSTEM@GW, the school’s new undergraduate cohort program; Electric Yacht, GW’s newest project-based student organization; expanded access to loaner computers; and a designated Student Project Area (SPA) on the basement level of the SEH.
The graduate team shared that in every conversation with students, he greeted them with a big smile, asked insightful questions, and engaged in meaningful dialogue. At the undergraduate level, Jonathan Ragone, Executive Director of Undergraduate Student Services and Advising, echoed how he “consistently kept students at the center of his work.”
“Whether meeting with students during office hours or supporting student events and projects throughout the year, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success,” said Ragone. “Even as he adapted to the many new responsibilities of his interim position, Dr. Zara remained dedicated, approachable, and focused on serving our students. GW Engineering greatly benefitted from his leadership and willingness to step into this role during a critical time.”
While he has always had a passion for working with students, in this interim role, Zara extended the same warmth and support to GW Engineering faculty, staff, and alumni. For him, the complexities of the past year were not insurmountable, as he said: “It’s always easy to lead good people.”
Zara consistently made himself available to connect with all members of the school community by making time for one-on-one meetings, participating in the school’s monthly coffee chats, and attending alumni events. At each alumni event, such as this summer’s picnic, he made a point of speaking with everyone there. This goes a long way in making alums feel seen, valued, and welcome, and has led to the expansion of his role as Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs to include alumni affairs.
“After more than two decades with the school, he could effortlessly provide historical context, answer detailed questions, and share a compelling vision for the future,” said Hollie Schultz, Director of Constituent Engagement & Annual Giving. “What always stood out to me was his ability to connect stories from the school’s past with where GW Engineering is headed next.”
Thanks to Zara’s steady hand and leadership, GW Engineering not only weathered a challenging year but continued to pursue its mission with excellence. His grounded and authentic approach to communication has helped cultivate a welcoming culture across the school.
“I’m sincerely grateful for Dr. Zara’s leadership and unwavering commitment during his time as Interim Dean, which has left an indelible mark on the GW Engineering community. I look forward to building on the strong foundation he has maintained, and I am excited to continue working alongside him in his expanded role,” said Lach, who returned as Dean of GW Engineering last month.