College of Education and Human Development Names New Dean
Published: April 04, 2023 | Author: Kenzie Lundberg | Read Time: 3 minutes
Dr. Pamela J. Powell has been named dean of Southern Utah University’s Beverley Taylor Sorenson College of Education and Human Development and will begin her appointment on July 1, 2023.
“After an exhaustive national search, Dr. Powell was recommended as one with the perspective, experience and passion to lead our colleagues in the Beverly Taylor Sorenson College of Education and Human Development,” said SUU Provost Jon Anderson. “After vetting a number of candidates, the search committee recognized Dr. Powell's commitment to the core values of SUU and the quality of its academic environment. Dr. Powell will bring to SUU an extensive background as a classroom teacher, faculty member, department chair, and associate dean. She is committed to the highest academic ideals and the shared governance process. We could not be more thrilled with her willingness to join us.”
Dr. Powell comes to SUU from Northern Arizona University (NAU) where she most recently served as associate dean for the College of Education. She holds the rank of associate professor and taught for nearly a decade before moving into an administration role. Outside of the university setting, served the education community through service on the governor-appointed Early Childhood Health and Development Board and the Early Childhood Research and Evaluation National Advisory Panel. Before entering higher education, Dr. Powell served as an elementary education teacher, earning her twenty-two years of practical experience.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Southern Utah University in the role of the Dean of the Beverley Taylor Sorenson College of Education and Human Development,” said Dr. Powell. “Working in collaboration across the university to advance the mission of SUU within the visionary College of Education and Human Development will be an honor. I am committed to the values and ideals of the university and am humbled to be able to serve in this role. I so look forward to coming to SUU!“
Dr. Powell has been recognized for her service to students with several awards including the Caring for Children Award from the Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth and the NAU Louie Award, given to a faculty member each year for outstanding contribution to the university.
Dr. Powell holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction with a focus on early childhood education from NAU, a master’s degree in reading education from Arizona State University, and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and elementary physical education from Texas Tech University.
“We also express gratitude to Dr. Bill Heyborne and the search committee who worked diligently to ensure that the selection process was thorough and that each candidate's credentials were vetted and evaluated,” said Provost Anderson. “The search committee put many hours into this search process and their work is acknowledged and appreciated. We look forward to many wonderful days ahead as we get the chance to work with and support Dean Powell.”
SUU’s Beverley Taylor Sorenson College of Education and Human Development encompasses the Teacher Education and Family Life and Human Development Departments, as well as several graduate programs in education. Learn more about the College of Education and Human Development.
Tags: College of Education and Human Development