UCF has recognized 100 faculty members with promotion and tenure for the 2025–26 academic year, marking a significant milestone in their academic careers and contributions to student success and the university.
Over the course of nearly a full academic year, peers, departmental and college leadership, and the university promotion and tenure committee engaged in a rigorous, multi-stage review to ensure candidates met UCF’s high standards in teaching, research, and service. Ultimately, they recommended 100 faculty members for promotion, including 23 for tenure.
Following the review process, the president and provost make final decisions on promotions, while the UCF Board of Trustees provides final approval for tenure candidates. These decisions directly advance UCF’s strategic plan and its focus on recruiting and retaining highly qualified faculty – especially those who elevate student success, accelerate discovery and research, and strengthen the talent pipeline that drives innovation and economics for the state of Florida.
“At UCF, promotion and tenure reflects a thoughtful, rigorous review process and the high standards we set as an institution and state,” says John Buckwalter, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “It’s a significant moment for these faculty, not just for the years of hard work it recognizes, but for what promotion and tenure represents: a sustained commitment to excellence, a deep dedication to student success, research that boldly improves lives, and the future we’re building together.”
Promotions and tenure conferrals annually take effect on Aug. 8.
The faculty members recognized below represent the continued strength and momentum of UCF.
Promotion to Professor (Tenured)
- Woo Hyoung Lee, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Thomas Wahl, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Yang Yang, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Promotion to Associate Professor with Tenure
- Jiannan Chen, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Chinwendu Enyioha, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Ozlem Garibay, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Yao Li, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Promotion to Senior Lecturer
- Marino Nader, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Sudeshna Pal, College of Engineering and Computer Science