Nicole L. Beebe has been named the new dean of the College of Computing at Illinois Institute of Technology, starting her role on July 1, 2025. Beebe transitions from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where she served as assistant vice president in the Office of Research and held positions as the Melvin Lachman endowed chair and professor of information systems and cybersecurity.
With over 25 years in cybersecurity across industry, government, and academia, Beebe has also spent 17 years as a professor and administrator in higher education. At UTSA, she significantly increased enrollment by 55% during her tenure as chair of the Department of Information Systems and Cyber Security from 2019 to 2023. She was instrumental in launching new programs, including UTSA's first fully online undergraduate degree in cybersecurity.
“This is a pivotal moment for computing education, and Illinois Tech is poised to reach new heights,” Beebe stated. “We’re at the forefront of a rapidly changing landscape...I’m excited to lead the College of Computing during this time.”
Interim Provost Jamshid Mohammadi expressed confidence in Beebe's appointment: “Nicole’s vision for the College of Computing and her vast experience connecting the worlds of academia and industry makes her a perfect fit for Illinois Tech.”
Illinois Tech President Raj Echambadi added, “We are honored to welcome Nicole to the university. I know her vision and record of innovation will further the College of Computing.”
Beebe succeeds Lance Fortnow, who was instrumental in expanding student enrollment and faculty recruitment since becoming inaugural dean when the college was established in 2020.
Beebe holds a Ph.D. in Business Administration with a focus on information technology from UTSA, an M.S. in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University, and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. Her professional background includes investigating computer crimes for the United States Air Force from 1998 to 2007.
Illinois Tech created its College of Computing to enhance Chicago’s tech ecosystem by preparing a diverse workforce skilled in data and computation. The institution offers unique degrees such as Midwest's only Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence.
For more information about Illinois Tech’s initiatives or programs, visit iit.edu.