After nearly two decades of transformative leadership at NC State, Louis Martin-Vega, former Dean of the College of Engineering, officially retired on January 1, 2025. Though he stepped down as dean last year, his impact on the university, particularly the Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) department, is unforgettable.
During his final year, Martin-Vega joined the ISE faculty, dedicating himself to mentoring senior design groups, delivering guest lectures, and guiding junior faculty with research proposals. This continued involvement reflects the passion for others that has defined his career. It is of a commitment to people, innovation, and academic excellence. “Louie has been an amazing mentor and boss,” said Julie Swann, A. Doug Allison Distinguished Professor and ISE Department Head. “He has great wisdom about leadership in academia, including everything from managing interpersonal dynamics to thinking about big-picture innovation.”
One of Swann’s favorite memories of Martin-Vega involves his nickname, “America’s Dean,” coined by a fundraiser. “It reflects the importance he placed on people and his accessibility to everyone,” she said. Paul Cohen, Distinguished Professor Emeritus and former ISE Department Head, also highlighted Martin-Vega’s dedication to inclusivity and problem-solving. “I know I appreciated, as did all the heads, his willingness to discuss critical issues openly and honestly,” Cohen reflected. “As Dean, he brought a passion for engineering education and worked to make it accessible for all students.”
Martin-Vega’s leadership extended far beyond personal relationships, shaping the university’s future through large-scale achievements. He played a key role in securing National Science Foundation (NSF) research centers, growing the engineering program, advancing fundraising efforts, and elevating the college’s visibility and rankings. “A book could be written about Louie’s positive qualities and values,” Swann exclaimed. “He is caring, thoughtful, strategic, gregarious, inclusive, inspiring, compassionate, loyal, collaborative, and so much more.”
As Martin-Vega transitions to the role of “Dean and Distinguished University Professor Emeritus,” his legacy of leadership and innovation will continue to influence NC State. The Wolfpack will miss his wisdom as dean, but his impact will resonate across the university for years to come.