B. Gökhan Çelik Appointed Dean of School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management

BRISTOL, R.I. – Roger Williams University has appointed B. Gökhan Çelik, Ph.D., as the next Dean of the School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management (SECCM), following a national search. A longtime member of the RWU community, Çelik has been serving the school as Interim Dean since July 2025.

Çelik brings more than 16 years of experience at RWU, where he has held several leadership roles, including faculty member, program coordinator, and Associate Dean. During his tenure, he has played a central role in strengthening academic programs, advancing industry partnerships, and supporting student success across SECCM.

“I am delighted to appoint Gökhan Çelik as Dean of the School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management,” said Provost Margaret Everett. “He is a deeply respected leader and colleague who brings a strong record of academic leadership, a clear vision for the future of SECCM, and a longstanding commitment to our students and faculty. His ability to build on the school’s strengths while positioning it for continued growth and innovation makes him exceptionally well-suited for this role.”

As Interim Dean, Çelik has led key initiatives to stabilize and grow enrollment, expand laboratory and instructional facilities, and enhance faculty capacity. He has also strengthened partnerships with industry and alumni, creating new opportunities for student engagement, internships, and career preparation. His leadership has helped position SECCM as a dynamic and forward-looking school within the university.

“It is an honor to be appointed Dean of the School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management,” Çelik said.  “For more than sixteen years, I have had the privilege of being part of the SECCM community, and I am excited for the opportunity to continue working with the faculty, staff, students, colleagues across the University, alumni, and industry partners who make this school so distinctive. Together, we will build on SECCM’s strengths, expand opportunities for our students, and deepen our impact in the industries and communities we serve.”

Çelik’s academic background includes a Ph.D. in Design, Construction and Planning from the University of Florida, as well as master’s and bachelor’s degrees in architecture from Anadolu University. He has a research agenda that spans construction management, sustainability, and emerging technologies in the built environment.

Throughout his career, Çelik has been recognized for excellence in teaching and scholarship, including receiving the ASC Northeast Region Teaching Award and multiple RWU honors. He has also contributed to national and international conversations in construction education and sustainability through his research, publications, and professional service.