#Daytona Beach #Embry-Riddle #Ayşe Şahin

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's New Leadership

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has made a significant move by appointing Dr. Ayşe Şahin as the new Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at its Daytona Beach Campus, effective May 26, 2026. This appointment signifies not just a transition in leadership, but also a commitment to enhancing the academic environment and student success within the university.

Dr. Şahin boasts over two decades of experience in academic leadership, having served most recently as the Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. Under her leadership, that college thrived with its seven departments, 85 faculty members, and approximately 1,300 students. She was instrumental in fostering an environment that promoted transparency and access to education, emphasizing the importance of social mobility through educational pathways.

Some of Dr. Şahin's most notable achievements at Wright State include:

• - Transformational Culture Change: She successfully drove initiatives that led to significant improvements in student retention rates and success in STEM courses, creating a learning environment geared towards future readiness.
• - Strategic Development: Şahin designed and implemented strategic plans that ensured sustainable growth and strengthened the business operations across academic disciplines.
• - Research and Philanthropy: She played a crucial role in securing substantial funding for research initiatives and student success programs, preparing graduates for leadership roles in a dynamic global economy.
• - Industry Connections: By forging strong partnerships with industry leaders, she established career pathways and experiential learning opportunities that connected students with real-world challenges.
• - Ph.D. Program Growth: Dr. Şahin increased Ph.D. enrollment and research capabilities through innovative funding strategies and business acumen, paving the way for the next generation of scholar-innovators.

The leaders at Embry-Riddle, including President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D., have expressed confidence in Dr. Şahin’s ability to fortify the university's educational mission.