The University of Texas Permian Basin is excited to welcome two new academic leaders to campus. Dr. Rafic “Ray” Bachnak has been named the first Dean of our new College of Engineering and Sciences, and Dr. Ansley Chua will step in as the new Dean of the College of Business.
“We are thrilled to welcome Drs. Chua and Bachnak to UT Permian Basin,” said Dr. Raj Dakshinamurthy, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Both are accomplished academic leaders who bring valuable experience and insight. Their leadership will be instrumental in shaping a strategic vision for their respective colleges and strengthening connections between the University and our broader community.”
“These new deans bring a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking approach to leadership,” said UT Permian Basin President Sandra Woodley. “Dr. Bachnak and Dr. Chua will play a key role in continuing to elevate the academic experience at UTPB. I am confident their guidance will help us meet the needs of our students and the growing demands of our region.”
Dr. Bachnak brings over three decades of experience in teaching, research, and academic leadership. He currently serves as the Interim Dean of the College of Sciences and Humanities at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. His academic career includes key leadership roles at Penn State University Harrisburg, Texas A&M International University, and Texas A&M University Corpus Christi.
“Dr. Bachnak has extensive experience developing and leading academic programs at institutions such as Pennsylvania State University in Harrisburg and Marymount University,” added Dr. Dakshinamurthy. “His distinguished track record as both an academic leader and faculty member makes him an ideal choice to serve as the inaugural Dean of our new College of Engineering and Sciences.”
Dr. Bachnak is a registered Professional Engineer with a strong background in research, academic leadership, and outreach. He has authored more than 140 peer-reviewed publications, with his work supported by agencies including NASA, the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Departments of Defense, Education, and Agriculture, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Space Grant Consortium, and several private foundations. Dr. Bachnak earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in electrical engineering from Ohio University.
“I am honored to join UTPB as the inaugural dean of the College of Engineering and Sciences,” said Dr. Bachnak. “I look forward to working with faculty, staff, alumni, and partners to grow our programs, drive innovation, and strengthen collaborations across disciplines and industries. Together, we will build programs that not only elevate academic excellence but also drive economic growth in West Texas and beyond.”
Dr. Chua joins UTPB from Kansas State University, where he most recently served as Associate Dean of Operations for the College of Business. He also held the role of Department Head and brings a strong background in vision setting, operations, fundraising, and student-focused programming.
“With his combined corporate and academic experience, Dr. Chua brings valuable insight and energy that will help elevate our College of Business,” said Dr. Dakshinamurthy. “His leadership as Associate Dean at Kansas State University speaks to his ability to lead with vision and impact. His passion for student success and focus on practical, career-oriented learning align perfectly with our University’s mission to deliver intradisciplinary, career-focused academic programs.”
Dr. Chua began his career in the private sector before transitioning to higher education. He earned his Ph.D. in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Florida State University, where he also completed his undergraduate studies in Biological Sciences. He holds a master’s degree in Information and Communication Science from Ball State University.
“I am honored to be the next Dean for the College of Business at UT Permian Basin,” said Dr. Chua. “I look forward to working with Provost Dakshinamurthy, President Woodley, our faculty, and staff to advance the college and support the Permian Basin. The Permian Basin is an exciting place to be, and I am thrilled to help guide the college in being the first choice for employers and equipping our students for the workforce.”
