Dr. Emmanuel G. Collins has served as the ninth dean of the J. B. Speed School of Engineering since May 2018. As Dean, he has focused on raising the research profile of Speed School, in part, by strengthening the university-wide research centers and institutes directed by the school’s faculty. In recent years, the school has experienced a dramatic increase in research productivity as research expenditures have increased by over 75% in the last 6 years. Another important focus has been growing both the undergraduate and graduate enrollments, which has resulted in record enrollments in Fall 2024 for both sets of programs. One of the more impactful events at Speed School is the building of its new Engineering Student Success and Research Building, scheduled to be occupied in July 2025. Dr. Collins is pleased to discuss how this building will positively affect student life and a key university research area.