Suffolk Reporter

College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Dean Andrew Singer participated in the Public Policy Colloquium held by the Engineering Dean’s Council of the American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE) from February 3 to 5 in Washington, DC.

The colloquium, established in 1991, is organized by a committee of engineering deans who are members of ASEE. Its purpose is to enhance discussions on engineering education and research issues between engineering deans and key public policymakers while allowing deans to refine their public policy agenda.

Dean Singer joined his counterparts from Columbia University, Cornell University, University at Albany, University at Buffalo, and the University of Rochester in meetings with several New York district legislators. These included Representative Nick Lalota, as well as teams for Representatives Adriano Espaillat and Josh Riley, along with Representative Paul Tonko.

The event provided an opportunity for the deans to share research developments and student achievements made possible through critical federal support. These advancements address societal changes such as national security and health through emerging technologies.

"As a member of ASEE," Dean Singer stated, "we are responsible for training the next generation of engineers and computer scientists and running the research facilities where scientific discoveries become the building blocks of innovative products, industrial processes and services."

Initially founded as the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Education (SPEE) in 1893 during a period of significant growth in American higher education—and amidst events like the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair—the society responded to increased government emphasis on research during World War II by forming the Engineering College Research Association (ECRA). Post-war integration with ECRA led to ASEE's formation in 1946. Over time, ASEE has grown both its membership base and its role as an information hub about engineering education.