We are pleased to welcome back Dr. Jonathan Ichikawa, who returned to the role of Department Head on July 1, 2026.
Dr. Jonathan Ichikawa
Dr. Ichikawa previously served as Head from 2022 to 2025 before taking a one-year leave from the role to focus on his research. He now returns to lead the department as it continues to build on its strengths in research, teaching, and community engagement.
“I appreciated the opportunity to focus on my research over the past year,” said Dr. Ichikawa. “I’m looking forward to leading the department through a new set of challenges and opportunities in the coming years.”
Dr. Paul Bartha
The department also extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Paul Bartha, who served as Acting Department Head during the 2025–26 academic year. Throughout his term, Dr. Bartha provided thoughtful leadership and ensured the department continued to thrive during the leadership transition.
We are grateful to Dr. Bartha for his service and dedication, and we look forward to Dr. Ichikawa’s leadership as the Department enters this next chapter.
