In February, the University and I were devastated by the loss of Professor Dr. Peng Wang, an assistant professor of chemical engineering and pharmaceutical sciences. Beloved by his students, respected by his peers and loved by his family, Wang served as a model teacher, friend, husband and father.

His commitment to developing drug control release mechanisms was indicative of his sharp mind and passion for helping people. Those traits stood out when I met him in 2010 and later when I extended him an offer to join our college community.

Once here on campus, Dr. Wang quickly became an integral part of our family. He taught courses in engineering and pharmacy and gained a reputation as an understanding professor focused on ensuring student success. He served as mentor for graduate students and was preparing to become his department’s adviser for freshmen.

In the lab, Dr. Wang’s research became a crucial piece in catapulting the college into emerging areas of drug delivery and nano-particles. His work won grants from the National Science Foundation, U.S. Army and private companies.

Dr. Wang was one of the eight promising young faculty who recently joined the college. Together this new generation has brought inspiring ideas and energy to our college family.

Each arrives with his or her own research specialties and promise to grow the college both as a teaching and research institution. But all the professors have one thing in common: a passion to not merely work together as professional peers but as friends. The loss of Dr. Wang has meant a loss of a dear friend, one who will not be forgotten.
Dean Raymond Wright, Ph.D., P.E.