Dr. Bill Van Heyst has been renewed for a second term as dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Windsor, effective Sept. 1, 2026. (MIKE WILKINS/ University of Windsor)
By Lindsay Charlton
Walking through the atrium of the Centre for Engineering Innovation this past year, passersby may have noticed posters reading “Go Bill Go!” and “Two-Term Dean” in support of Bill Van Heyst, dean of the Faculty of Engineering, ahead of his renewal process.
The University of Windsor has since confirmed that Van Heyst will continue to lead the faculty through a second term, effective Sept. 1.
"I'm really grateful for the opportunity to continue serving as dean of the Faculty of Engineering,” he said. “The support from our students means a lot, and I'm looking forward to continuing to work with our faculty, staff and students as we build on the work we've done together."
Van Heyst joined the University of Windsor in 2021 and has led the faculty through a period of renewal and growth. Under his leadership, the faculty has expanded its academic programs, recruited new faculty, strengthened its research profile and improved the student experience.
He spearheaded the development of the Elevate scholarship, which provides scholarships and summer research internships with faculty mentors for students from equity-deserving groups, including Black, women, non-binary and Indigenous students.
Engineering Students' Society (ESS) president Malek Mekawi said Van Heyst goes out of his way to put students first, which is why the society wanted to make its support known.
“His presence in our faculty is felt by virtually everyone,” Mekawi said. “He goes out of his way to do the little things. Whether it's saying ‘hi’ when he sees you, asking what's wrong if you look upset, showing up to student events and supporting the incredible work our students are engaged in on a daily basis.”
Mekawi said Van Heyst's collaborative approach has strengthened both undergraduate and graduate programs while creating an environment where students are encouraged to lead, serve their communities and continue learning throughout their careers.
“His consistent presence, coupled with his genuine engagement with students through a variety of events, has fundamentally reshaped what true leadership looks like within the Faculty of Engineering,” he said. “He has cultivated a culture rooted in openness, mutual respect and the continued success of all students.”
Van Heyst often says, “Engineers serve the world,” a phrase that reflects his approach to engineering and his view of the profession’s role in society, and one he seeks to instill in students.
“Our work is ultimately about people,” he said. “Whether it’s designing cleaner technologies, strengthening infrastructure or finding solutions to new challenges, engineers have a responsibility to improve the communities around them. That's the mindset I hope our students carry with them long after they graduate.”
A professional engineer, Van Heyst has continued to contribute to his field through research. His recent work includes studies on nitrogen oxide emissions and sustainability indicators in the context of global development.
“Dr. Van Heyst’s leadership in engineering and the wider university has been exceptional,” said Dr. Cheryl Collier, interim provost and vice-president, academic. “We are thrilled that he has agreed to continue to lead and advance engineering at Windsor for a second term.”
Looking ahead to his second term, Van Heyst will continue to focus on strengthening the student experience, research capacity, industry engagement and the development of new engineering programs.