UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Christine Masters, associate professor of engineering science and mechanics, has been named assistant dean for academic support and global programs in the College of Engineering at Penn State. Renata Engel, associate dean for academic programs, made the announcement today (Nov. 19).

Masters takes over for Jean Landa Pytel, who will retire at the end of the calendar year.

As assistant dean, Masters will provide leadership to the college’s programs that support students’ undergraduate experience, including advising, and advance the college’s commitment to global engagement.

“Dr. Masters’ commitment to the academic success and professional development of students has been a hallmark of her professional career,” Engel said. “I look forward to working with her as she builds upon the strong foundation of academic support in the college.”

Masters has been a member of the Penn State faculty since 1997 and served as the undergraduate coordinator for the engineering science program for the past decade. She has provided leadership to the college’s academic integrity committee and participated on a number of curriculum committees and educational research.

Her awards include the Penn State Engineering Alumni Society’s Outstanding Advising Award and Penn State’s George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Masters is an active member of the Mechanics Division of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE), taking on numerous leadership roles in ASEE.

She received her bachelor’s in mechanical engineering in 1987 and her doctorate in engineering science and mechanics in 1992, both from Penn State.