Xiaoqing "Frank" Liu, head of the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, has accepted the role of dean of engineering at the University of Southern Illinois. A search is underway for his replacement.

Dale Thompson, associate department head for undergraduate programs, will lead the department on an interim basis.

Liu has been with the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering since 2015. His last day will be July 9.

John English, dean of engineering, thanked Liu for his work over the last five years.

"Dr. Liu has been a joy to work with and I'm grateful for his leadership during a time of rapid growth in the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering," English said. "There is intense interest in our computer science and computer engineering programs from students across Arkansas and beyond. Dr. Liu worked hard to scale our faculty and research enterprise to accommodate that growth. We wish him all the best in Carbondale. Many thanks also to Dr. Thompson as he steps in to maintain the positive momentum in the department."

Liu thanked his colleagues at the University of Arkansas and praised the work being done in the College of Engineering.

"I am impressed by the dedication of administrators, faculty, and staff to the excellence of teaching and research for student success at the College of Engineering," he said. "I had a great experience at the University of Arkansas and I would like to express my gratitude to those I worked with here."