Michael C. Rodriguez named new CEHD dean

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael C. Rodriguez as the new CEHD dean.

A professor of educational psychology, Dr. Rodriguez has served as interim dean of the college since last August and previously was associate dean of undergraduate education, diversity, and international initiatives. He joined the University faculty in 1999 and in 2013 was named to the Campbell Leadership Chair in Education and Human Development. In 2015, in conjunction with the Campbell Chair, he cofounded the Educational Equity Resource Center, which he continues to direct, supporting University work and campus-community collaborations to reduce achievement gaps and expand collaborations to improve educational access and success. His teaching and research focus on educational equity, educational testing and assessment, and social and emotional learning and positive youth development.

As dean, Dr. Rodriguez will be the chief executive officer and chief academic officer of the college and will collaborate broadly to continue to advance CEHD as a national leader in education and human development. Guided by CEHD’s strategic plan, and the strategic priorities of the University, he will collaborate with faculty, students, and staff to preserve and enhance the excellence of the college and to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. He will also continue developing University partnerships with other campus deans and key stakeholders to serve the educational, research, service, outreach, and engagement activities of the college.

Dr. Rodriguez’ appointment as dean follows an internal University search by a nine-member search committee and a public interview process that engaged internal and external constituencies.

“His extensive understanding of the college, and deep relationships within and beyond the college, have been important assets during his tenure as interim dean, and generated broad support across the school for his vision and leadership throughout the past year,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel T.A. Croson. “I am confident that Dr. Rodriguez has the collaborative leadership skills, administrative experience, and academic strengths to provide excellent leadership for CEHD. Please join me in thanking Dr. Rodriguez for his service in the interim role over the past ten months and in welcoming him as the new dean.”