The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff welcomed Eddie L. Branch, Ph.D., as the new chairman of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science in the School of Arts & Sciences.
An accomplished academic and former senior principal systems engineer at the U.S. Department of Defense, Branch has more than 16 years of experience in higher education and more than 19 years of service in national security, according to a news release.
As a UAPB alumnus, Branch’s return to the university marks a full-circle moment, continuing a family legacy of more than 100 UAPB graduates.
Under his leadership, the department now offers five bachelor’s degree programs –mathematics, computer science, cybersecurity, computer information systems and data science, as well as a Master of Science in computer science and technology. His strategic vision focuses on increasing enrollment and retention, ensuring the programs are equipped to prepare students for the rapidly evolving technological landscape, according to the release.
Branch’s credentials include a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from UAPB, a Master of Science in applied mathematics from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. His diverse academic journey also included advanced doctoral studies at the University of Maryland and Central Michigan.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
In his previous role at the DOD, Branch specialized in radar and missile defense, contributing to national security efforts across Washington, D.C.; Boston; and San Diego.
“His work in digital signal processing, pattern recognition, biomedical engineering, differential equations, and radar detection and tracking will serve as invaluable assets in the classroom, providing students with practical, real-world knowledge,” according to the release.
Grant Wangila, interim dean of the UAPB School of Arts and Sciences, supported Branch’s appointment, emphasizing the positive impact his leadership will have on the department.
“Dr. Branch fills a critical leadership gap, and with his expertise and vision, I am confident we will see growth in enrollment and retention across all programs,” said Wangila.
He was also endorsed by other UAPB leaders.
“The unwavering support of Interim Chancellor Dr. Andrea Stewart, Vice Chancellor George Cotton, and Vice Chancellor Bruce McGowan has been instrumental in bringing Dr. Branch to the UAPB community. Their efforts have helped secure a leader whose commitment to academic excellence and innovation will drive the UAPB Department of Mathematics and Computer Science to new heights,” according to the release.