Sang June Oh, a seasoned mechanical engineer and longtime academic leader, has been appointed interim dean of Cal State Fullerton’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, effective June 1. Oh steps into the role following the retirement of Dean Susamma (Susan) Barua, who concludes her 37-year tenure at CSUF at the end of the semester.
Currently serving as the college’s associate dean—a position he has held since 2016—Oh was selected after extensive consultation with faculty and staff. With nearly 16 years of dedication to CSUF, he brings a wealth of institutional knowledge, a passion for student success, and a track record of academic leadership to the role.
Oh’s academic journey began with bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in mechanical engineering from Columbia University. He launched his teaching career as a lecturer at CSUF in 2008 and steadily advanced through the ranks, earning tenure as an associate professor in 2015 and full professorship in 2022. He also chaired the Department of Mechanical Engineering from 2015 to 2016.
For Oh, one of the most fulfilling aspects of his work has been witnessing the achievements of alumni. “Seeing former students return to campus to share their professional milestones—and credit CSUF for shaping their careers—is incredibly rewarding,” he noted.
As an Associate Dean, Oh has played a pivotal role in advancing college initiatives, including enrollment management, student internships, and the CSU’s Graduation Initiative 2025. He spearheaded efforts to maintain ABET accreditation standards, ensuring program quality and rigor. His collaborative leadership extends to university-wide committees, such as the Academic Standards Committee and the Strategic Plan Oversight Committee.
Oh also co-directs *Project RAISER*, a U.S. Department of Education-funded initiative focused on improving STEM transfer student outcomes. His interdisciplinary research in assistive technology and biomedical engineering—bolstered by postdoctoral training in neuroscience at Yale and Johns Hopkins Universities—has further enriched his contributions to academia.
Oh’s commitment to education is evident in his teaching record. He has developed and taught 13 distinct courses, mentored students on research projects, and co-authored publications with undergraduates. His efforts have earned multiple accolades, including the 2009 Associated Students Inc. Outstanding Educator of the Year Award and recognition from CSUF’s Faculty Development Center for teaching excellence and ABET leadership.
As interim dean, Oh aims to build on the college’s momentum, emphasizing access, innovation, and student empowerment. “I’m honored to support our talented community and continue advancing the college’s mission,” he said.
Dean Barua, who led the college since 2016, leaves behind a legacy of growth and achievement. The university will initiate a national search for a permanent dean in the coming academic year.
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