Provost Xuanning Fu announced that Dr. Alam Hasson will begin his position as the vice provost for the Division of Academic Affairs, effective June 1.

Hasson earned a bachelor's in chemistry from the University of Oxford, a doctorate in physical chemistry from the University of Birmingham and worked as a postdoctoral researcher at UCLA before joining Fresno State as a faculty member in the Chemistry Department in 2001.

He taught classes across the curriculum ranging from introductory courses to graduate level seminars. As a faculty member, Hasson developed a vibrant Atmospheric Chemistry research group, served as the thesis committee chair for many master's degree chemistry students, and worked with over 100 graduate, undergraduate and high school students on research projects. Hasson has published over 30 journal articles and made over 150 conference presentations, many of which include Fresno State students as co-authors. In addition, he led and participated in teams that have been awarded research grants totaling over $22 million and was recognized with the Provost’s Award for Distinguished Achievement in Research, Scholarship or Creative Accomplishment in 2013.

Prior to his current role as interim vice provost, Hasson’s service and leadership roles included the chemistry graduate coordinator, director of the Institute of Climate Change, Oceans and Atmosphere, Chemistry Department chair, associate dean of the College of Science and Mathematics, and special assistant to the interim provost. As associate dean, he supported the development and expansion of the Health Careers Opportunity Program, the growth of the college’s first-year experience program (BOND), and the development of the Family Partnership program, all of which have measurable impacts on student retention, graduation and closing of achievement gaps.

During his appointments as special assistant to the interim provost and interim vice provost, he worked closely with the provost and the President’s Cabinet to implement several important initiatives including a new funding model for Academic Affairs, piloting summer state-side classes, re-enrollment and student success. His major duties and contributions also cover several areas such as academic technology, accessibility/inclusion and accreditation.