Schools

Quinsigamond Community College Names New Dean for Computer, IT Programs

He will oversee computer science, computer information systems and several other programs.

Dr. Dennis Dean was appointed the new dean of the college's School of Computing and Applied Technologies, the school announced on Tuesday.
Dr. Dennis Dean was appointed the new dean of the college's School of Computing and Applied Technologies, the school announced on Tuesday. (Quinsigamond Community College)

WORCESTER, MA — A new leader has taken the helm at Quinsigamond Community College.

Dr. Dennis Dean was appointed the new dean of the college's School of Computing and Applied Technologies, the school announced on Tuesday.

At QCC, Dean will oversee computer science, computer information systems, computer systems engineering technology, automotive, utility, HVAC, manufacturing and electronics engineering programs.

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He brings more than two decades of experience in computational science, large-scale research management, and collaborative scientific leadership in healthcare and higher education, according to QCC.

He previously worked at Velsera, the biotechnology company formerly known as Seven Bridges, where he oversaw large-scale genomics programs and scientific staff serving the biopharmaceutical sector. The work helped accelerate drug discovery and develop tools to more quickly identify combination therapies for cancer treatment.

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Dean said he is excited to help students at every level. “Our job is to prepare them now with the academic rigor, collaboration skills and hands‑on experiences they need to step into the workforce with confidence," he said.

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Dean spent 15 years at Brigham and Women's Hospital, where he studied the effects of sleep on cardiovascular disease, chronic illness and ADHD. He also helped with NASA research.

“We are thrilled to welcome a leader whose vision and experience align with our mission,” said Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Kathy Rentsch. “His ability to unite teams, translate complex ideas, and support learners makes him an outstanding fit for QCC. We look forward to the energy, insight and innovation he will bring to our community.”

Dean said he plans to strengthen connections among the curriculum, real-world projects, apprenticeships, and co-ops. He said preparing students for collaboration and effective communication, especially in an era of rapid advances in AI and computing, will be a central focus.

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