Expanding Opportunities in SU’s Fastest-Growing Program

Growing up near Heidelberg, Germany, Burkhard Englert, PhD, wasn’t sure what he wanted to do with his life, but he was encouraged to have an open mind, be flexible and not be afraid to face challenges. That led to much trial and error and when a mathematics advisor at the University of Connecticut suggested he consider getting a master’s in computer science, he gave it a shot. Three years later, he had his PhD in Mathematics (Theoretical Computer Science) from UConn.

“That’s how I grew up,” Dr. Englert says. “I chase something that isn’t easy. And that’s what I tell students now. Don’t be afraid, be proud of yourselves and what you can achieve.”

It’s that drive to challenge himself and try new things that has led
Dr. Englert to the Pacific Northwest, where on July 1 he begins as Seattle University’s new Department Chair and Amazon Endowed Chair of Computer Science in the College of Science and Engineering (CSE).

Dr. Englert comes to Seattle after serving as the Department Chair of Computer Science at Norfolk State University, having held the same position at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington. With an extensive research background in cybersecurity, he will be tasked with supporting faculty in one of SU’s fastest-growing programs, while also looking to expand opportunities for students. Among those is implementing new master’s programs, including in cybersecurity.

“Dr. Englert will be able to support the growth of our existing as well as new programs, both at the graduate and undergraduate levels,” says CSE Dean Amit Shukla, PhD. “He will help address persistent issues of equity and access in collaboration with the faculty and staff in the college. His vision for growth of computer science as a discipline as well as infusing computing around the campus is aligned with our strategic directions.”

Dr. Englert was drawn to Seattle University’s focus on making students successful in all facets of their lives by creating a sense of support and belonging. He says the Department of Computer Science, while growing quickly, has a feeling of family with people who want to be sure they provide programs and ideas that lead to student success.

“What I really like is Seattle University is always looking forward and the leadership deeply understands the challenges and opportunities that we face,” he says. “I’m excited to be part of that commitment. The faculty is outstanding. They see what the problems are and they aren’t running away—they’re looking to see what has to happen next. It won’t be easy, but it’s exciting to be a part of. I think it’s a perfect fit.”

Two big focuses for Dr. Englert will be in supporting faculty as they navigate the challenges of growth in the department, as well as fostering relationships with industry to develop opportunities for the school and students. He says that while enrollment and growth are vital for a university, it puts pressure on faculty to keep up.

“I’m in awe that I can become a member of the team. I love the university, the campus, the people. When I visited, I loved seeing students hustling around, looking for answers, solving problems. It’s uplifting.”

“You want students to feel close to the faculty and have a personal experience, but if you have too many students and more coming, that’s a big challenge. We have to be proactive and flexible. So much depends on the faculty and if they are uncomfortable, we have to find a way to solve immediately.”

Away from work, Dr. Englert enjoys hiking and running—he’s looking forward to the challenge of Seattle’s many hills. He also enjoys going to classical music concerts, appreciating how hard the musicians work. Travel is also important to him. Among his highlights were two trips to Namibia, Argentina and a stint as a high school teacher in Guatemala. And now he’s looking forward 
to his next trip to Seattle.

“I’m excited,” he says. “I’m in awe that I can become a member of the team. I love the university, the campus, the people. When I visited, I loved seeing students hustling around, looking for answers, solving problems. It’s uplifting.”