Thomas named dean of Auburn’s College of Sciences and Mathematics

Edward “Ed” Thomas Jr., interim dean and professor of physics, has been appointed dean of Auburn University’s College of Sciences and Mathematics, or COSAM, effective March 1. Thomas assumes the role following a national search and is the first COSAM dean appointed to hold a doctorate from Auburn.

As interim dean since 2021, Thomas led the college through a critical time of transition where he focused on advancing mission-driven activities and strengthening engagement opportunities for students and faculty through increased resources and improved facilities. Working with more than 2,800 students, faculty and staff, Thomas developed essential programs and initiatives to strengthen the college’s culture of excellence, including increasing opportunities to support and recognize the contributions of COSAM’s stakeholders.

Wish Phil Forrest farewell on Friday, March 3

Stop by the Leach Science Center on Friday, March 3 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Leach Science Center, 2^nd Floor Conference Room 2142, and wish Phil Forrest all the best in his new position at Auburn University Chief Information Security Office.

After 22 years of dedicated service in the College of Sciences and Mathematics, or COSAM, he is starting a new chapter as a Senior Cybersecurity Engineer.

Third annual EmpowHER Conference celebrates positive female role models in sciences to girls throughout Alabama

More than 130 girls from the state of Alabama participated in the third annual EmpowHER Conference hosted by the Office of Outreach in the College or Sciences and Mathematics, or COSAM.

The conference is held in conjunction with the International Day for Women and Girls in Science.

Mary Lou Ewald, director of COSAM’s Office of STEM Outreach, welcomed the girls and their chaperones to the event. Ewald explained, “EmpowHER provides a unique opportunity for young girls to interact with female role models in STEM fields. This lets them see themselves as scientists.”

Kimberly Mulligan-Guy, assistant dean of Inclusion, Equity and Diversity in COSAM, asked the group if they know a woman who is an engineer, a mathematician or a scientist.

Girls shared thoughts about what they think of when they think of science. Participants responded with answers about the periodic table, working in a lab, inventing new items and much more.

“This is one of my favorite annual events because girls get to experience Auburn University and see positive female representation that will help grow their love of science,” said Mulligan-Guy. “We need more diverse voices in the field of STEM and this event reminds these girls that it is okay to love science, be yourself and be supported through their journey.”

“Today, we are going to learn about the role of science and see how science can innovate, demonstrate, elevate, advance and sustain our society,” said Mulligan-Guy. 

Learning Assistant Program: February Newsletter

Check out the first Faculty Spotlight, Yohannes Mehari, and Learning Assistant of the Month, Cullen Mills, in the February newsletter for the Auburn University Learning Assistant Program.

View previous issues of COSAM Today.

We want to hear from you! Share your good news with us.

COSAM Today is published by COSAM's Office of Communications and Marketing. Questions? Send an email to mcg0052@auburn.edu.