There is always excitement in the air this time of year around campus. This fall, in particular, we have much to be excited about and proud of within the College of Education.
First, we are thrilled to welcome seven new faculty to the College’s ranks this fall, as we continue to see our numbers increase. We also congratulate a couple of familiar faces who are embarking on expanded, new-to-them roles in the College. Congratulations to Dr. Kiel Christianson and Dr. Yoon Pak, who have been appointed Chair of the Educational Psychology department, and Head of the Education Policy, Organization and Leadership (EPOL) department, respectively. We all truly benefit from this infusion of new research and expertise, along with proven leadership abilities, that these world-class faculty bring to the College of Education.
There is much anticipation for the Illinois Statewide K-12 Computer Science Education Summit on September 20, which is bringing together cross-sector constituents from around the state to work on a plan for consistent, standards-based computer science education for Illinois schoolchildren. The College is proud to lead in this effort to advocate for and shape quality, access, and economic development in our state as it pertains to computer science education for all.
This month we also celebrate the 15-year anniversary of the Goldstick Family Lecture in the Study of Communications Disorders on September 26. We look forward to welcoming back to campus Dr. Ruth V. Watkins, who will share insights on building university-community research partnerships.
Last, but not least, on September 27 we recognize the College's commitment to educational innovation with events celebrating our rich history and promising future. The Bureau of Educational Research 100th Anniversary Celebration features commemorations from several current and past participants in the College’s important research enterprise. Directly afterward, we are proud to unveil the O’Leary Learning Center in the Education Building. We are grateful to the O’Leary family, whose gift toward this space makes enhanced collaboration of interdisciplinary projects, enriched STEM instruction, and improved online learning experiences a reality.
Please continue reading this newsletter to learn about all the reasons for excitement within the College this fall. Without a doubt, we are taking education to new frontiers.
Yours in Orange and Blue,
James D. Anderson, Ed.M. ’69, Ph.D. ‘73
Dean and Edward William and Jane Marr Gutgsell Professor of Education
