Meet the Dean
Six things to know about Dr. Levi Thompson, our new College of Engineering dean
By Kim Vreeland//Advancement
In August, Levi Thompson, PhD, joined the university as dean of the College of Engineering. Dean Thompson previously served in the same role at the University of Delaware, which grew significantly in enrollment, research expenditures and national rankings during his tenure.
With advanced degrees in chemical and nuclear engineering, Thompson’s research has focused on catalytic and energy storage applications and has generated 14 patents.
He will work with students, faculty and staff to expand the College of Engineering’s interdisciplinary collaborations, create more hands-on learning opportunities for students and grow the research enterprise.
Here are six insights to help you get to know Dean Thompson.
1. He’s a fan of George Washington Carver.
Thompson appreciates the pioneering engineers and scientists like Carver, the early 20th century scientist who diversified planting options for poor Southern famers and influenced agricultural practices worldwide by developing hundreds of new uses for peanuts, sweet potatoes and soybeans.
“I’m most impressed with Carver’s ability to innovate despite personal and professional constraints, and by the scientific work he accomplished using the limited equipment available,” Thompson says. “It’s hard to imagine.”
2. He’s believes in learning by doing.
Thompson champions a “real-world” approach to education, particularly experiential learning in foundational courses. Lessons in books come to life when students actually build something, he says.
“USF aspires to be producers of career-ready engineers,” Thompson says.
3. He curates culture.
Striving to be the best, he says, should never come at the expense of teamwork.
So, whether he’s leading a college, his research or a business, he works to develop a culture that fosters collaboration, is rooted in trust and transparency, and encourages a shared expectation of excellence.
“When you get the culture right, you have a much better chance of being highly successful.”
4. He admires MJ.
As a teen, Thompson dreamed of a career in basketball. His favorite player is Michael Jordan, whom he describes as “a tremendous example of excellence, determination and focus.”
While a high school teacher steered him toward chemistry, Thompson did play for the University of Delaware, balancing the rigors of the court with those of the classroom. Some doubted he could handle both, which just made Thompson all the more determined to prove them wrong.
His favorite NBA team? His boyhood home team, the Philadelphia 76ers.
5. He’s a sucker for the von Trapp family.
A few of his favorite things are playing golf, spending time with friends and family and watching the 1965 classic movie, “The Sound of Music,” which he appreciates for its message of hope and persistence.
“It brings our family together,” he says. “Around Christmastime, we love being together and watching our favorite movie.”
6. He’s got a winning formula for Fantasy Football.
Thompson forayed into Fantasy Football 15 years ago while playing poker with some friends who started a league. Now, he’s in three leagues, and it’s how he spends his Thursday, Sunday and Monday nights.
“Last year, I won two out of the three leagues. It’s just a lot of fun!”
