Georgia Tech has named Professor Pardis Pishdad as the ADVANCE Professor for the College of Design, a role focused on advancing faculty success and institutional transformation.
As ADVANCE Professor, Pishdad will work to build institutional capacity that supports faculty success and well-being across the College and the Institute. The role supports Georgia Tech’s Strategic Plan and aims to foster a sustainable and inclusive academic climate through transparent policies, strategic partnerships, and advocacy for career advancement and work-life balance.
“My focus will be on cultivating a culture where faculty can thrive — through collaboration, intellectual engagement, and by reducing non-value-adding burdens,” Pishdad said. “I’m honored to serve in this role and see it as an opportunity to be a voice for faculty — a connector between colleagues and leadership — working together to make Georgia Tech even greater.”
Russell Gentry, associate dean for faculty, described the Institute-wide impact of the role. "In my experience, the ADVANCE Professors have been advocates for fair treatment of all, advocates for faculty across all colleges and disciplines, and leaders that the administration can consult when dealing with issues related to faculty hiring, retention and support."
“Pardis has consistently demonstrated leadership across multiple roles within the College, and her selection as our ADVANCE Professor is a reflection of that commitment," said Ellen Bassett, dean and John Portman Chair. "She brings to this position both her dedication to mentoring and supporting faculty and her voice as an advocate who carries the concerns and aspirations of our community to the broader Institute. We are proud to see her step into this role, where her vision and collaborative spirit will continue to strengthen both the College and the Institute as a whole.”
The ADVANCE Professorship is part of a broader initiative originally funded by the NSF to promote institutional change in support of faculty equity, diversity, and excellence. Previous College of Design ADVANCE Professors are Catherine Ross and Nancey Green Leigh.