The VCU School of Education proudly announces the promotion of several faculty members, the appointment of two interim associate deans, and the recognition of three professors as Professors Emerita, effective immediately, in acknowledgment of their outstanding contributions to academia and service.

The promoted faculty, grouped by title and listed alphabetically, are:

Tenured Professor:

• Abigail Conley
• Patrick Mullen

Professor:

• Andrew Arroyo

Tenured Associate Professor:

• Andrene Castro

Associate Professor:

• T’Airra Belcher
• Lisa Cipolleti
• David Naff

Assistant Professor:

• Christine Frawley
• Sharon Jones
• Sandra Wilberger

Faculty awarded tenure, grouped by title and listed alphabetically, are:

Tenured Professor:

• Ashley Boyd
• Kelli Feldman

Tenured Associate Professor:

• John Fife
• Paul Harris

New Interim Associate Dean Appointments

Yaoying Xu, Ph.D., has been appointed Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Graduate Studies, effective July 10. Kamden Strunk, Ph.D., will serve as Interim Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Development, beginning July 25. 

“Both Dr. Xu and Dr. Strunk bring valuable leadership experience and deep commitment to our mission, and I am grateful for their willingness to step into these critical roles. Please join me in congratulating and supporting them as they take on these new responsibilities,” said Dean Kelli Feldman, Ph.D. 

 

Three Professors Named Professors Emerita

The university also honors three faculty members with the prestigious title of Professor Emerita. Gypsy M. Denzine, Ph.D., is recognized for her exemplary service as a faculty member, researcher, instructor, and Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs. Colleen Thoma, Ph.D., is celebrated for her dedicated contributions as a faculty member, researcher, instructor, and administrator for the Department of Counseling and Special Education. Charol Shakeshaft, Ph.D., is honored for her distinguished career as a faculty member, researcher, instructor, and administrator for the Department of Educational Leadership.

“These exceptional faculty members exemplify the highest standards of scholarship, leadership, and service, driving transformative impact in our classrooms and communities,” said Dean Kelli Feldman. “Their dedication to advancing education and empowering students strengthens the mission of our School of Education and inspires us all.”

The School of Education extends its congratulations to all honorees for their remarkable dedication and impact.