JMU names dean for College of Integrated Science and Engineering

Following a competitive selection process, Grady Dixon has been named the next dean of the College of Integrated Science and Engineering (CISE) at James Madison University. He will join JMU on July 1. 

Dixon comes to JMU from Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas, where he serves as dean of the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics. With more than two decades of experience in higher education, he has built a career centered on teaching excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and academic leadership. 

Throughout his career, Dixon has been drawn to institutions that emphasize strong teaching and student engagement, particularly environments that blend classroom learning with field experiences, undergraduate research and cross-disciplinary collaboration. 

“I have long admired JMU as a place known for great teaching,” Dixon said. “Learning more about CISE’s interdisciplinary focus and the university’s growing research profile made it clear how closely our priorities align.” 

At Fort Hays State University, Dixon oversees eight academic departments and more than 100 full-time employees. During his tenure as dean, the college achieved record increases in grant proposals and research funding, strengthened donor engagement, and launched new initiatives to support workforce-aligned learning, including the institution’s first digital badge microcredential. 

Prior to his appointment as dean, Dixon served as chair of the department of geosciences at Fort Hays State University, where departmental enrollment increased by 23%. He also proposed and piloted the university’s first centralized advising model and developed an online bachelor’s degree program to expand access for students facing barriers to traditional learning formats. 

“Dr. Dixon brings a strong record of academic leadership grounded in teaching, collaboration and student-centered innovation,” said Bob Kolvoord, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs. “His experience advancing interdisciplinary programs, supporting faculty excellence and building external partnerships positions him well to lead CISE at a pivotal time for the college and the university.” 

Dixon earned a doctorate in geography from Arizona State University, a master’s degree in geography from the University of Georgia, and a bachelor’s degree in meteorology from Mississippi State University. He is an active scholar whose research has been supported by multiple grants and widely featured in national and international media. 

Dixon looks forward to building strong connections with faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners across the JMU community, noting that relationships are essential to effective leadership. 

“My wife, Melissa, and my two children, Delia and Brooks, are all very excited about this new opportunity,” Dixon said.  “We look forward to being engaged in the community, just as we have been for the last 12 years in Hays, Kansas.”