Frank Tweedie - Johnson & Wales University

Biography

Dr. Frank Tweedie has been a dedicated member of the Johnson & Wales University community for over 32 years, previously serving as the Dean of the College of Engineering & Design for the past 21 years. His new role is the Executive Director of Cybersecurity & Computer Science Education. His leadership is focused on enhancing the Cybersecurity and Computer Science reputation by fostering innovative programming, expanding real-world, project-based learning opportunities, and creating an inclusive environment that supports student success. Before assuming his role as the Executive Director, Frank held a variety of leadership and faculty positions, including College dean, Engineering Studies Department Chair, interim director of the Worcester campus, full-time faculty member, and practicum/internship director. His expertise lies in Electro-Mechanical Engineering, with a strong interest in computer science and cybersecurity. Beyond his work at JWU, Frank has been an active contributor to various external boards. His experience includes serving on the Statewide Computer Science Advisory Committee, the Davies Vocational School AOIT Advisory Board, Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Beacon Charter School of the Arts for 14 years, now holding the title of Board Member Emeritus, and member of the Community College of Rhode Island Cybersecurity Advisory Board.

Frank’s research and academic contributions are significant. He has co-authored multiple papers, including System Engineering and Networking, IP2P: Intellectual Property to Product, and Order & Disorder: Entropy in Science, Math, Nature, and the Arts. He has also written and secured over $1 million in grants to support the expansion of Cybersecurity programs at JWU, forensic training initiatives for local and state law enforcement, and cyber awareness training for high school educators.
Certified in Systematic Curriculum and Instructional Development by Ohio State University, Frank has been a lead faculty trainer on the Hope High School Technology Advisory Committee. Passionate about the future of education, especially mathematics, he focused his doctoral research on the impact of technology in enhancing student engagement and motivation. His thesis, Teachers’ Responses to the Impact of Intelligent Mathematics Tutorials on Students’ Motivation and Engagement, highlights his commitment to improving educational outcomes.

Outside of academia, Frank has been deeply involved in his community and church. Over the years, he has held leadership roles in the Rhode Island and Woonsocket Jaycees, served as an assistant scoutmaster for his local Boy Scout troop, and coached a wide range of youth sports. His coaching experience has included CYO baseball, basketball, and softball, as well as Cumberland’s recreational and competitive girls’ soccer, and lacrosse programs, along with boys’ baseball and summer league basketball.
Within his parish, Frank continues to support the Men of St. Joseph and is a Third Degree Knight of Columbus. His longstanding commitment to community, youth, and parish service reflects his belief in the importance of giving back and supporting the organizations and people who strengthen the community.

Frank resides in Cumberland with his wife of 40 years, Laurie. Together, they have two children and three grandchildren, all of whom are an important part of his life.