Dr. Harper Named Dean of Education and Professional Studies

Dr. Cynthia Harper

June 29, 2004 — Jacksonville State University's Dr. Cynthia Harper was recently elevated from acting dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies to dean of that program, according to Dr. Rebecca O. Turner, vice president for academic and student affairs.

Dr. Turner said that Dr. Harper, who joined the JSU faculty in 1975, "has demonstrated exceptional competence during her employment at JSU." She has exceptional energy, impressive leadership qualities, and the vision needed to lead the College of Education and Professional Studies."

Dr. Harper said, "I'm excited about the position. We have a wonderful faculty who are experienced in their fields. The programs that we offer are state-of-the-art, not only in education but also in professional studies."

The College of Education and Professional Studies is one of JSU's largest, with 34% of the JSU population.

In addition to teacher training, the College includes several professional studies programs including technology, engineering, communication, and family and consumer sciences.

"It is a diverse college," said Dr. Harper, "and it's a challenge to coordinate all of these programs. I know the programs and the people. I'm so familiar with the faculty, program and administration. That will be a real strength for me.

According to Dr. Turner, "JSU's long history of producing more teachers in the state of Alabama than any other university makes Dr Harper's position extremely valuable to this university and to the state."

Dr. Harper has served as associate dean of the College since 2000. She holds a B.S. in secondary education and a master's degree in counselor education from JSU. She earned an Ed.D. in special education from the University of Alabama in 1994.

During her years of service to JSU, Dr. Harper has served as head of the College's Department of Curriculum and Instruction and as associate dean. She became acting dean in October 2003.

"I enjoy coming to my job every day," said Dr. Harper. "That describes how excited I am about serving in this position."

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