Meet the Dean
For the past decade, Tina Choe, Ph.D. has served as dean of the LMU Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering at Loyola Marymount University, leading with vision, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to student success. Since beginning her tenure as interim dean in 2014 and her official appointment in 2015, she has transformed Seaver College into a thriving hub of excellence in STEM education, championing diversity, faculty growth, and groundbreaking academic initiatives.
Student success has been a steadfast priority for Dean Choe. Under her leadership, Seaver College has seen some of its highest enrollment numbers and a more diverse student body. Her commitment to experiential learning has resulted in increased student participation in faculty-mentored research through programs like Seaver’s Summer Opportunities for Advanced Research and student professional development opportunities such as conferences and competitions. Through substantial growth in scholarships, Dean Choe continues to equip Seaver students with the resources to excel.
A visionary fundraiser, Dean Choe played an instrumental role in securing LMU’s largest capital gift in university history, as well as the largest gift from a living donor—$25 million from the Thomas and Dorothy Leavey Foundation to support the forthcoming Engineering Innovation Complex, which will revolutionize STEM education at LMU. In collaboration with partners across the university, Dean Choe has helped raise more than $100 million for Seaver College to further scholarships, research, state-of-the-art STEM facilities, and additional resources for the college’s students, faculty, and staff.
Dean Choe has expanded the college’s academic offerings, introducing new undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and accelerated master’s programs, along with interdisciplinary initiatives. Her leadership has also strengthened the college’s reputation through enhanced industry partnerships and experiential learning opportunities that connect students with professionals in STEM fields. Through the college’s annual event, Seaver Spotlight, established by Dean Choe, distinguished leaders in STEM come to campus and share their experiences and insights with students.
Dean Choe has prioritized faculty recruitment and development, hiring a diverse group of exceptional teacher-scholars who align with the university's mission. Her commitment in this area has notably expanded the presence of women faculty in departments where representation was historically low.
Dean Choe’s leadership is a guiding force for Seaver College—one defined by innovation, inclusion, and a steadfast dedication to academic excellence and student success. Her vision has transformed the college, shaping opportunities for students and faculty alike while strengthening Seaver’s reputation as a dynamic center for STEM education. Under her continued direction, Seaver College is poised to reach new heights, preparing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians to make a lasting impact on the world.