Naperville resident begins NIU College of Engineering leadership role
On July 1, one of Naperville’s newest residents, Mohammad Saadeh, took the reins as chair of Northern Illinois University’s Department of Engineering Technology (TECH).
The department is part of NIU’s College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (CEET) on the DeKalb campus.
CEET’s emphasis on hands-on instruction resonates with Dr. Saadeh.
“I believe in offering support, training, and a safe environment that accepts trials and failures as integral parts of the learning process,” Saadeh said. “Technology is more into `show me’ and `hands on’ than theory. I like to work on cars and complicated systems, and I know many students in Technology share the same interests. That’s one of the most enjoyable ways to connect with them.”
CEET Dean David Grewell said he’s impressed by Saadeh’s experience, commitment to student success, and visionary approach to program development that aligns with NIU’s mission and values.
“He’s already demonstrated strength and leadership as a department chair,” Grewell added. “We look forward to having Mohammad address the department’s challenges and opportunities in the future.”
Saadeh was most recently at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana for 12 years. He was an assistant professor for six years before a six-year period as department head of Industrial and Engineering Technology. In that span, he significantly advanced the department through innovative program development and strategic partnerships.
His research interests are diverse and interdisciplinary, spanning areas such as artificial intelligence, optimization, instrumentation, and bio-mechatronics. One of his notable achievements is the establishment of the Science and Technology Interactive Learning Experience (STILE) Program, aimed at increasing STEM awareness among students from low-income backgrounds.
At NIU, he plans to continue his work in supporting students from lower socio-economic backgrounds by developing outreach initiatives to connect with K-12 schools in high-poverty areas and creating pathways for social mobility through professional relationships and industry partnerships.
A native of Jordan, Saadeh hails from an academically oriented family. His father was an accounting professor and most of his siblings have advanced degrees, including two who also work in academia. In addition, his wife, Hanaa, holds two master’s degrees (exercise physiology and population health management) and has served as an adjunct faculty member at three Louisiana colleges.