Tom Farmer and Patrick Mullen join VCU’s School of Education
August 14, 2023
The Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Education is thrilled to announce the appointments of Dr. Thomas Farmer and Dr. Patrick R. Mullen as department chairs within the School of Education. Each of these individuals brings a unique set of skills and experiences that will add tremendously to their respective departments.
Dr. Farmer, a distinguished scholar in the field of applied developmental science, will assume the role of chair for the Department of Foundations of Education. With an internationally recognized career, as evidenced by his impressive track record of research funding, consistent and extensive community engagement, Dr. Farmer's impact has been felt across the U.S. and beyond. His experience as a department chair at the University of Pittsburgh and his extensive leadership roles, including directing federally funded multi-university research centers, have prepared him to lead innovative initiatives at VCU.
“Dr. Farmer's research focuses on the intersection of educational psychology, human development, special education, and teacher preparation. He has dedicated his work to fostering social inclusion and promoting the school adjustment of minoritized youth,” said Kathleen Rudasill, Ph.D., interim dean for the VCU School of Education. “Dr. Farmer has been a pioneer in the study of children’s social lives at school, and the role of teachers in the peer ecology of the classroom. Through collaborations with educators, school leaders, and community stakeholders, Dr. Farmer has developed professional development programs that prioritize students' strengths, needs, and individual characteristics. His commitment to equity and inclusivity aligns perfectly with VCU's mission to create a diverse and supportive learning environment.”
Dr. Farmer's robust research-practice partnership framework has attracted funding from federal agencies, leading to over 20 impactful projects in communities across the nation. As a dedicated advocate for exceptional children, his role as a presidential officer of the Division for Research of the Council for Exceptional Children underscores his commitment to driving research-based impactful and positive change in education.
Dr. Patrick R. Mullen is a scholar in the field of school counseling and counselor education and is the new chair for the Department of Counseling and Special Education. Having been a faculty member at East Carolina University and William and Mary, Dr. Mullen brings a breadth of experience to his new leadership role in the VCU School of Education.
“Dr. Mullen has been a driving force in enhancing school counseling programs and promoting professional well-being within the education community. His research in school counseling, counselor education, and supervision has garnered recognition at state, regional, and national levels,” said Dr. Rudasill. “Dr. Mullen's dedication to advancing the field is exemplified by his editorial roles in esteemed journals, including the Journal of Counseling and Development and the Journal of School-based Counseling Policy and Evaluation.”
“The VCU School of Education is excited to welcome Dr. Farmer and Dr. Patrick R. Mullen as they take on their respective leadership roles. These appointments mark an exciting new chapter for the School of Education, promising a future of groundbreaking research, transformative education, and a continued commitment to empowering students and communities,” said Dr. Rudasill.
In addition to the Departments of Counseling and Special Education and Educational Foundations, the VCU School of Education also has the Departments of Educational Leadership and Teaching and Learning. Whitney S. Newcomb, Ph.D., is a professor and department chair of Educational Leadership. Luciana C. de Oliveira, Ph.D is a professor and serves as associate dean for academic affairs and graduate students; she is also the interim department chair for Teaching and Learning.
For more information about the VCU School of Education and its distinguished faculty, please visit the official website at https://soe.vcu.edu.
# # #