Dasta named interim dean of design, construction and planning

July 11, 2005

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Anthony Dasta, associate dean and professor, has been named interim dean of the University of Florida’s College of Design, Construction and Planning. The appointment is effective Aug. 6.

Dasta succeeds Jay Stein, who is stepping down after six years as dean. Stein will take a one-year sabbatical before returning to resume his regular faculty appointment as a professor of urban and regional planning.

A registered architect and engineer, Dasta came to UF in 1966 after working in a structural design firm in Chicago. He joined the dean’s office in 1988 as director of computer facilities. In 1991, he was appointed assistant dean for student services and then became associate dean for curriculum and student services in 1997.

Dasta currently teaches a graduate course in architectural structural systems.

Dasta’s said his plans as interim dean include expanding the college’s international programs as well as finishing and implementing a constitution for the college that will bring faculty and staff together under an umbrella of shared governance. While he admits that he’d like to see the constitution become a reality, he stressed that “students come first.”

“I’m really pleased, on behalf of the college and the university, that Professor Dasta has accepted this assignment as interim dean,” said Joe Glover, interim provost. “His deep understanding of college and university operations ensures no loss of momentum as the college moves into an era of new leadership.”