A message from Dean Jann Joseph

by Jann Joseph | Published December 11, 2013

Just as hard as it is to believe that we are almost through fall semester with the holiday season upon us, it's hard to believe that I am in the midst of my third year as dean at the College of Education (COE). My tenure thus far has been truly remarkable. I am continually amazed and proud of the excellent work our faculty and staff produce to ensure that our programs are meeting the needs of our pre-service and graduate students.

This summer, we wished Dr. Jon Margerum-Leys a fond farewell as he retired from Eastern Michigan University to take a position as dean at California Polytechnic State University and welcomed Dr. Beth Kubitskey. Beth joined the leadership team on August 1, 2013 and will serve as Interim Associate Dean for Students and Curriculum. Beth holds a Ph.D. in Educational Studies-Teacher Education from the University of Michigan and brings a wealth of experience as a classroom teacher and teacher educator to the COE. She is also a tenured faculty member in the physics department with a keen knowledge and understanding of accreditation issues and teacher professional development.

We also said goodbye to Dr. Barbara Gorenflo who retired from her position as Assistant Dean of student teaching and welcomed Dr. Nora Martin. Starting August 19, 2013, Nora is serving for one year as the interim director of student teaching. Nora earned her masters degree at Eastern Michigan University and her doctorate in educational psychology from the University of Michigan. In her role, she will report to Dr. Kubitskey.

On November 1, 2013, the COE took a leadership role as we hosted a one-day conference entitled, Educator Preparation: A Call to Action in Michigan. In addition to our keynote speaker, Dr. Marilyn Cochran-Smith, faculty and administrators from around Michigan came together to discuss the next steps to revitalize teacher preparation in the state or Michigan.

Our international outreach initiatives have been active and are still going strong, and the COE has hosted several enlightening events as we celebrate the 100 Year Anniversary of the Special Education Department - the first such program in the nation!

Also, beginning last academic year and continuing into summer 2013, the Porter Building received a few enhancements and capital improvements. Splashes of color, art and directional signage have made the building easier to navigate and a more welcoming environment to work, grow and learn. If you haven't paid a visit to the Porter Building in a while, please stop by.

I am delighted to announce that the Morris Chair for 2013-14 will be Dr. Sylvia Nassar-McMillan, professor and program coordinator of counselor education at North Carolina State University. She has served in a variety of clinical mental health, schools and college settings over the past 25 years. She has published three books, 22 book chapters and 37 refereed journal articles. Dr. Nassar-McMillan's appointment begins on January 15 , 2014. For more information, please visit the Michael G. Morris Endowed Chair site.

I would also like to note that the call for proposals deadline for the 2014-15 John W. Porter Chair Distinguished Chair in Urban Education is fast approaching. Proposals are due by 5 p.m. on January 15, 2014. For more information, please visit the Porter Chair Call for Proposals site.

The COE is now on Facebook. Please visit our page and "Like" us. It is a great way for faculty, staff, students, alumni and donors to stay connected and updated on all things COE.

I look forward to continued growth and prosperity in our departments and college and I appreciate the dedication and commitment that every faculty, staff, student, alumni and community partner gives to the COE. I wish you all a safe and peaceful holiday season and a prosperous new year.

Best,

Jann Joseph
Dean, College of Education