Vistasp M. Karbhari is a Professor in the Departments of Civil Engineering, and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Texas at Arlington, where he served as the 8th president from 2013 to 2020. He is internationally known for his research on processing and mechanics of composites, durability of materials, infrastructure rehabilitation, and multi-threat mitigation, for which he has received awards and is a fellow of numerous professional organizations. As an administrator and higher ed leader he is known for his work and advocacy for access and attainment in higher education as well as for enhancing excellence and has been honored by numerous organizations for his contributions including as a Fellow of Complete College America.