UNF names Dr. Paul Eason as Vice President of Strategy and Innovation
The University of North Florida has named Paul Eason, Ph.D., P.E. as its first vice president of strategy and innovation. The position, previously the VP of data analytics, was refocused to reflect UNF President Moez Limayem’s commitment to achieving a new strategic vision for the University.
Eason will oversee the execution of the UNF Strategic Plan, which was updated this summer with an emphasis on key performance-based funding metrics, elevating UNF’s rankings in U.S. News & World Report, and strategic growth to meet the talent demands of the region and beyond. Eason will work in concert with the other vice presidents on initiatives that bridge across the different units of the University to ensure alignment with the Strategic Plan and state goals. Among his many responsibilities, Eason will work to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation to help UNF reach its highest potential.
“Paul is a strategic thinker who is widely respected at UNF and throughout Northeast Florida,” said President Limayem. “He cares deeply about our students, the University and our community, and I know UNF will benefit immensely from his leadership in this new role.”
Eason began his career at UNF in 2005 as an adjunct professor in the School of Engineering. He was hired as a tenure track assistant professor in 2007 and rose through the ranks of tenure and promotion to associate professor in 2012 and professor in 2018. Eason was instrumental in crafting the Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Innovation legislative budget request in 2016, which continues to fund faculty lines in the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Bachelor of Science program and the operation of the Materials Science and Engineering Research Facility (MSERF).
Eason is a native of Jacksonville and a proud product of Duval County Public Schools. After graduating from Terry Parker High School, Eason attended the University of Florida where he received his Bachelor of Science and doctorate in Materials Science and Engineering. Eason spent his early career consulting in engineering matters of litigation and risk assessment. He founded e4 Consulting in 2003 and has continuously served as an expert witness for litigation, testifying in matters of materials failure, fires and explosions.
Eason begins his new position on Aug. 5 and will continue his role as director of MSERF.