Feature Stories 2025: Meet Engineering Dean Rob Griffin

"Engineering is a great education no matter what you want to do," said Dean Rob Griffin. "It's as much about the education and training as it is about learning how to think and problem-solve. College is where life learning begins, and life is about so much more than what you studied." 

A native of Bourne, Massachusetts, Griffin earned his degrees in chemical and environmental engineering from Tufts and Caltech before building a research career focused on atmospheric chemistry and air pollution. Most recently, he served as dean of the School of Engineering, Computing, and Construction Management at Roger Williams University.  

Recently appointed as dean of the COE, Griffin still recalls what it was like to be a student and the important role that mentors play in the lives of young people.  

"I was inspired to become an engineer by my high school chemistry teacher. He had a great sense of humor and really opened my eyes to the different career paths within science," Griffin recalled. "When I described what interested me, he helped me see that what I was describing was engineering." 

At UMassD, Dean Rob Griffin now leads a college that blends big-picture research with a focus on the student experience. 

"This place is on the rise, and being part of something like that is exciting personally and professionally."

Why UMass Dartmouth? What do you think is special about this place? 

"I love that our faculty are as committed to state of the art, cutting-edge research as they are to our students. We’re actively engaged in solving global challenges, but we’re also of a size that allows us to focus on our core mission: the students, their growth, their experience in and out of the classroom. I’ve worked at R1 research institutions and at primarily undergraduate-serving institutions, and UMass Dartmouth is a perfect mix of those worlds."  

What excites you most about your new role here? 

"Since I first came to campus, I've felt a sense of optimism from everyone. This place is on the rise, and being part of something like that is exciting personally and professionally. 

"I’m also encouraged by how open my fellow deans are about how we can interact across disciplines. At some institutions, colleges can become very siloed, and I think it's a strength for us to allow our students to see how disciplines intersect in the real world."  

What do you see for the future of the college? 

"The future is cross-disciplinary. This is true within engineering; for example, robotics can encompass electrical, computer, mechanical, and even bioengineering. But it also applies beyond the field of engineering. Engineers can also be business leaders, educators, and more. Students shouldn't feel pigeonholed by their majors. I look forward to creating more pathways for students at those intersections." 

What advice would you give to today's college students? 

"Utilize the resources at your disposal. Meet with your advisor, go to faculty office hours, and take advantage of tutoring services. What comes easily to one student will be challenging for another and vice versa, but you're not alone on this journey. There are so many people here to help you succeed."