College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies
The College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies (CECS) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers intercollegiate undergraduate programs focused on emerging fields and workforce-aligned education. CECS supports innovative learning models, industry-connected coursework, and collaborative academic pathways across multiple disciplines.
Leadership
Ozlem Kilic, DSc
Vice Provost and Founding Dean of CECS
A longtime engineering professor and academic leader, she previously served as Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs in the University of Tennessee Tickle College of Engineering. Dr. Kilic has led major interdisciplinary initiatives focused on data science, emerging technologies, and workforce-ready education.
Katie Cahill, PhD
Assistant Dean of Partnerships and Economic Development
She leads initiatives that support student engagement, career readiness, and partnerships connecting academic programs with workforce needs. Previously a senior leader at the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs, her work focuses on expanding access to education, strengthening career pathways, and helping students translate academic experiences into meaningful professional opportunities.
Barry Mathis
Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Vitruvian Health
With more than three decades of experience in healthcare technology and IT leadership, he specializes in cybersecurity, digital transformation, and strategic technology implementation across complex health systems. Barry Mathis is also a member of the Board of Visitors for the University of Tennessee College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies.
Emam Fatah, PhD
Professor of Practice
With more than 20 years of experience in medical device research and development, his work focuses on medical imaging, artificial intelligence in healthcare, and computational modeling of anatomical structures. Dr. Abdel Fatah brings extensive industry and research experience to the classroom, preparing students to apply emerging technologies to real-world healthcare challenges.
Mehmet Aydeniz, PhD
Professor of STEM Education, CEHHS
Faculty Fellow, CECS
Dr. Aydeniz is a professor of STEM education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and a faculty fellow with the University of Tennessee College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies. His research focuses on how scientific knowledge is developed and taught, with an emphasis on improving science instruction and supporting teacher and student learning.