Tomova came to UCF in 2021 from the University of Iowa where she was an associate dean and a distinguished mathematics scholar. At UCF, she has played a key role in advancing student success, research and faculty excellence at UCF’s largest college and UCF Â鶹¾«Æ· S™s status as Florida Â鶹¾«Æ· S™s Premier Engineering and Technology University.

Under Tomova Â鶹¾«Æ· S™s leadership, the College of Sciences increased its four-year graduation rate from 54% to nearly 70%, and research expenditures grew from $18 million to $33 million. As vice provost, she also contributed to university-wide efforts that raised UCF Â鶹¾«Æ· S™s overall four-year graduation rate to 60% Â鶹¾«Æ· S” up from 54% in 2023 Â鶹¾«Æ· S” and helped position the university to attain the state Â鶹¾«Æ· S™s prestigious preeminence designation, which is expected this summer.

Joshua Colwell, associate dean and Pegasus Professor of physics, will serve as the College of Sciences Â鶹¾«Æ· S™ interim dean during the national search for Tomova Â鶹¾«Æ· S™s replacement.

Michael D. Johnson, UCF provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, praised Tomova for her dedication and innovative leadership.

“I am grateful for Dr. Tomova Â鶹¾«Æ· S™s collaborative spirit and strategic insights that have elevated the College of Sciences and our academic enterprise,” Johnson says. “We wish her much success on this well-earned next chapter.”