As the “caretaker of the enthusiasm of others,” Andrea Tapia, dean of the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), says it is her responsibility to open doors for undergraduate and graduate students so they can achieve their goals — whether that’s a degree, a research grant, or something else that might change the world.
Tapia is a vibrant figure in and beyond IST. She was named the permanent dean of the college effective May 1, 2024, after holding the role in an interim capacity since August 2023. Prior to her dean position, Tapia built a longstanding and successful career within the college over the last 22 years.
“I hope students see me and realize that, in our college, everyone is welcome,” said Tapia. She combines infectious enthusiasm and a collaborative spirit with academic expertise to drive progress and manage change. In her career, Tapia overcame barriers to promotion and struggled to be taken seriously. As the college’s first female dean, she channels that strength to be a role model for future female leaders in the field of IST.
The College of IST was created to fill the unmet needs in the emerging fields of information sciences and technology. The department went against the norm and brought together researchers from a variety of disciplines — including computer science, medicine, law, business, and the social sciences — to tackle the current challenges in a new way.
That innovation continues today. The department leads Penn State in AI and is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
“Our college is developing programs and degrees that will generate an explosion of interest across the University,” said Tapia.
The College of IST has a strong commitment to equity and inclusion and hosts a series of events and programs that aim to inform, inspire, and empower. Every initiative in the “Be You in Tech” series is designed to help participants understand the role of diversity and inclusion in their personal and professional lives through knowledge-sharing, reflection, and community-building.
Learn more about IST programs that are offered online through Penn State World Campus.