Division News
College Names New Dean of Mathematics & Sciences
RALEIGH, N.C. (December 17, 2025) – Wake Tech is pleased to announce Dr. Jackie Swanik as the new dean of Mathematics & Sciences Division.
Swanik will oversee Wake Tech's math and sciences programs, as well as the division's general education courses. She will guide internal and external collaboration with students, college service areas, the North Carolina Community College System, business and industry partners, community organizations, university partners and other agencies in support of the college's mission to help students excel academically, transfer successfully and thrive in the workforce.
Swanik has served as associate dean for the division, previously known as Mathematics, Sciences & Engineering, since 2016. Since joining Wake Tech in 2009, she has held numerous leadership and teaching roles, including associate department head of Natural Sciences and associate professor of Biology.
Swanik has also led several high‑impact, collegewide initiatives, including Wake Tech's unique STEM Academic Research and Training (START) program and the Scholarly Opportunities for Advancement and Research (SOAR) program, which provides resources and best practices to elevate student success.
"Jackie is an exceptionally talented leader, and we are thrilled she is stepping into this role," said Dr. Gabby McCutchen, provost of Arts & Sciences at Wake Tech. "Her vision, experience and dedication make her the perfect fit to guide the Mathematics & Sciences Division forward."
"I am honored to assume this role and am eager to build upon the division's culture of innovation and collaboration," said Swanik. "My goal is to create an environment where faculty, staff and students flourish and to ensure our programs equip learners for success in an ever-changing world."
Swanik earned a bachelor's degree in Biology from Campbell University and a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. She also completed UNC‑Chapel Hill's prestigious Seeding Postdoctoral Innovators in Research and Education program.
Swanik has published multiple articles in scientific journals and is an active member of the Council on Undergraduate Research.
She begins her new role on January 5.
