Seattle University has appointed Dr. Burkhard Englert as the new Department Chair and Amazon Endowed Chair of Computer Science. With a background in cybersecurity, machine learning, distributed computing, distributed algorithms, and transportation network modeling and optimization, Englert has previously held leadership positions at Norfolk State University, University of North Carolina-Wilmington, California State University Long Beach, and the University of Northern Colorado. He is scheduled to begin his new role at Seattle U on July 1. The position was supported by Amazon following the departure of the previous computer science chair, Roshanak Roshandel, who left for a job at the company.
Englert will be taking over from Steve Hanks, the current computer science department chair, at Seattle University. The university recently unveiled its renovated Jim and Janet Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation, with Amazon contributing $3 million to the building. This move is part of a larger trend of key personnel changes happening across the Pacific Northwest. Seattle biotech company Sana announced the resignation of Douglas Williams, executive vice president and president of research and development, for personal reasons. Williams has a background in leadership roles at Codiak BioSciences and ZymoGenetics.
In another significant change, Seattle-based law firm Davis Wright Tremaine has named Wendy Kearns as its new partner-in-charge. Kearns, who started her career as a software developer, joined the firm in 2013 and most recently chaired its technology practice. With prior experience as an attorney for Microsoft, Kearns replaces Pete Johnson as the firm’s interim firmwide managing partner. These changes highlight the ongoing shifts in leadership and key positions across various industries in the region.
Dr. Burkhard Englert brings a wealth of experience in computer science and academia to his role at Seattle University. His expertise in areas such as cybersecurity and machine learning will be instrumental in guiding the department and shaping its future direction. The support from Amazon for the endowed chair position underscores the growing partnerships between tech companies and educational institutions in the region, with a focus on driving innovation and research in key areas of technology.
The appointment of Englert comes at a time when Seattle University is investing in modernizing its facilities, such as the Jim and Janet Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation. The contribution from Amazon towards this project reflects a collaborative effort between industry leaders and educational institutions to create state-of-the-art learning environments. These developments signal a commitment to advancing research and education in the field of computer science and technology, with the aim of preparing students for careers in a rapidly evolving industry.
The recent changes in key personnel at Seattle University, Sana, and Davis Wright Tremaine highlight the dynamic nature of the Pacific Northwest’s business landscape. With individuals like Dr. Burkhard Englert, Wendy Kearns, and Douglas Williams assuming new leadership roles, these organizations are poised for growth and transformation. As industry veterans with diverse backgrounds and experiences, they bring a fresh perspective to their respective fields, driving innovation and progress in technology, biotech, and legal sectors. The overall impact of these changes is expected to contribute to the region’s reputation as a hub for innovation and talent in various industries.
