Education (Colleges & Universities)
Here's a look at documents from public, private and community colleges in the U.S.
Featured Stories
University of Michigan: How Peach Fuzz Could Hold Clues to Develop New Treatments for Chronic Itch
ANN ARBOR, Michigan, June 6 (TNSjou) -- The University of Michigan issued the following news:
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How peach fuzz could hold clues to develop new treatments for chronic itch
Researchers discover specialized neurons and vellus-like hair in mice--hairs that are like vellus hairs, or peach fuzz, on humans--give rise to itchiness in response to touch
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Working with mouse models, research led by the University of Michigan has revealed previously hidden biology of how touch-sensitive hairs create itching sensations. This fundamental discovery opens new avenues to better understand and potentially
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ANN ARBOR, Michigan, June 6 (TNSjou) -- The University of Michigan issued the following news:
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How peach fuzz could hold clues to develop new treatments for chronic itch
Researchers discover specialized neurons and vellus-like hair in mice--hairs that are like vellus hairs, or peach fuzz, on humans--give rise to itchiness in response to touch
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Working with mouse models, research led by the University of Michigan has revealed previously hidden biology of how touch-sensitive hairs create itching sensations. This fundamental discovery opens new avenues to better understand and potentiallyaddress human health conditions characterized by persistent itchiness.
"Itch is one of the major symptoms in most chronic skin inflammation patients," said Bo Duan, associate professor in the Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. "What we've discovered is a pathway that we believe plays a very important role for both acute and chronic itch sensation."
The team discovered a previously unrecognized class of hairs in mice, known as vellus-like hairs, and a specialized population of touch-sensitive neurons that connect to them. As their name suggests, these hairs are similar to the fine, short, light-colored vellus hairs found on humans, though we more commonly refer to them as peach fuzz.
The work, supported in part by funding from the National Institutes of Health, was published in the journal Neuron.
For one set of experiments, the team worked with mice that had chronic skin inflammation, which is known as eczema in humans. Mice that expressed these neurons scratched normally, as one would expect. But, for mice that lacked those neurons or in which the neurons were inactive, the itching response was greatly reduced.
While there are a number of ways to help soothe chemical itch caused by things like mosquito bites and poison ivy, those treatments are ineffective against itch caused by skin inflammation, Duan said. This study suggests treatments that target the "mechanical itch" pathway could be more successful.
"We need a new pathway to target if we want to treat chronic itch," Duan said. "And our research suggests that this population of neurons could be a target in the future. We have ongoing projects looking at this."
Although the team can't run experiments to directly identify the same or related pathways in humans, the researchers are already building the case with other forms of evidence. For starters, humans do possess genes required to make these touch-sensitive neurons.
The team also discovered proteins in mice that help transmit the itch signal from hairs to the spinal cord via the specialized neurons. Human neurons grown in cultures respond to the same proteins, the team found.
"Our study indicates that humans may have this same kind of mechanism to transmit mechanical itch," Duan said. "It also reveals that the body has a dedicated system for this type of sensation."
A real head-scratcher
It's one of Duan's favorite science demonstrations, one that he gave while interviewing for his job and one that he still shows to students joining his lab.
First, you take a tissue and roll one of its corners into a long, fine point. Then take that point and, ever so gently, stroke at the hairs around your lips. Not the thicker, darker hairs, which are called terminal hairs, but the thin, light vellus hairs. If you graze one just right, that peach fuzz will make you itch.
"Humans and animals experience this kind of itch, but no one knew the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind it," Duan said. The new study identifies the sensory pathway that links specialized hairs to itch and, together with earlier research from Duan and his teammates, helps explain how these signals are transmitted through the nervous system.
It was more than a century ago that scientists first noted that the vellus-like hairs of mice, which are especially concentrated behind their ears, beneath their lips and at the base of their paws, were "special." Yet these hairs have remained largely understudied in sensory science, Duan said.
Because of that, there really weren't any standard procedures to test whether and how mice responded to mechanical itch. That meant Duan and his colleagues had to develop their own methods.
"A mouse can't say that it's itchy," Duan said. "But it will scratch."
For the new study, the team mechanically stimulated itch in mice using a small loop of thread and stroking the animal's vellus-like hairs. Once they identified the neurons that gave rise to the itching response, the researchers could then make those neurons sensitive to blue light. Shining light on a mouse's skin and observing it scratch in the same way it did with mechanical stimulation helped confirm the specific neurons' role in itch.
Peach fuzz and peach fuzz-like hairs grow in higher numbers near human and mice mouths and ears, Duan said. This suggests they may have evolved as a warning system for mammals to alert them when pests or parasites are trying to get in.
But human bodies are covered in vellus hair (with some notable exceptions like the palms of our hands) and you may wonder why we're not constantly scratching if we're coated with such sensitive touch receptors. Another one of Duan's earlier projects studying itch in mice could also explain that: Within the spinal cord, there are "gating" circuits at work that essentially block the mechanical itch signal unless it's activated in a particular way.
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Study: A specialized population of hair afferents dedicated to transmitting mechanical itch (DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2026.05.017)
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Original text here: https://news.umich.edu/how-peach-fuzz-could-hold-clues-to-develop-new-treatments-for-chronic-itch/
UAlbany Visit to India Marks Milestone With Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management
ALBANY, New York, June 6 -- SUNY University at Albany issued the following news:
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UAlbany Visit to India Marks New Milestone with Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management
By Amy Geduldig
A University at Albany delegation traveled to India this week to mark a new milestone in its partnership with the Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management (RISM), joining university officials, academic leaders and industry partners for the formal launch of the new STEM and management university in Bengaluru.
The launch highlighted UAlbany's role as a knowledge partner to RISM, providing guidance
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ALBANY, New York, June 6 -- SUNY University at Albany issued the following news:
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UAlbany Visit to India Marks New Milestone with Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management
By Amy Geduldig
A University at Albany delegation traveled to India this week to mark a new milestone in its partnership with the Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management (RISM), joining university officials, academic leaders and industry partners for the formal launch of the new STEM and management university in Bengaluru.
The launch highlighted UAlbany's role as a knowledge partner to RISM, providing guidanceon curriculum and faculty development as the new university builds academic programs and research opportunities in STEM and management. Through the one-of-a-kind partnership, students will build the skills and experience needed for careers in emerging fields of technology and business.
UAlbany President Havidan Rodriguez, Provost Carol Kim, Vice President for Research and Economic Development Thenkurussi "Kesh" Kesavadas, Vice President for University Development Fardin Sanai, Director of the AI Plus Institute and Empire Innovation Professor Balakrishnan "Prabha" Prabhakaran and other campus leaders participated in launch events and panel discussions focused on the future of engineering education, artificial intelligence, translational research and industry collaboration. The delegation also attended a ceremonial lamp lighting to celebrate the opening of the RISM's transit campus in Yelahanka, where academic operations are expected to begin in August 2026, as well as a ribbon-cutting for a dedicated UAlbany space on the campus.
During the formal launch ceremony, Rodriguez delivered remarks on the role of international partnerships in advancing innovation, research and student success. The delegation also joined discussions with Ramaiah leaders and industry experts about how universities can better connect learning, capability, innovation and societal impact.
"The University at Albany is so proud to have built a strong partnership with our colleagues here in Bengaluru. Our partnership is not symbolic - it is innovative, substantive, impactful, and transformative. RISM's students will have access to global learning opportunities, including curriculum co-developed by RISM and UAlbany faculty, exchange programs, and research collaborations. Here, they will learn to be engaged global citizens," said Rodriguez in his remarks.
The collaboration creates a framework for both institutions to explore faculty exchanges, student coursework, internships, service-learning activities and research opportunities. It also builds on UAlbany's strengths in computer science, engineering, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and semiconductors while supporting RISM as it develops new academic programs and research initiatives.
RISM is being established as a next-generation university designed to connect classroom learning with real-world application through industry-aligned coursework, capstone projects, hands-on learning and translational research. Initial academic programs are expected to include computer science and artificial intelligence, aerospace engineering, electrical sciences, business and technology management.
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Original text here: https://www.albany.edu/news-center/news/2026-ualbany-visit-india-marks-new-milestone-ramaiah-institute-science-and
Texas A&M Engineering: Endowment Fuels Faculty Development in Mechanical Engineering
COLLEGE STATION, Texas, June 6 -- The Texas A&M University College of Engineering issued the following news:
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Endowment fuels faculty development in mechanical engineering
The Sallie and Don Davis '61 Career Development Professorship in Mechanical Engineering II was established to support the teaching, research, service and professional development for mechanical engineering professors.
By Kamryn Chapman, Contributor
Sallie and Don Davis' enduring connection began as college students navigating long-distance visits between Southern Methodist University, the University of Texas at Austin
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COLLEGE STATION, Texas, June 6 -- The Texas A&M University College of Engineering issued the following news:
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Endowment fuels faculty development in mechanical engineering
The Sallie and Don Davis '61 Career Development Professorship in Mechanical Engineering II was established to support the teaching, research, service and professional development for mechanical engineering professors.
By Kamryn Chapman, Contributor
Sallie and Don Davis' enduring connection began as college students navigating long-distance visits between Southern Methodist University, the University of Texas at Austinand Texas A&M University. Through cross-campus travels, marriage, family, careers and moves nationwide, the Davises have maintained strong ties to Texas A&M, later establishing multiple philanthropic endowments supporting the university's College of Engineering.
Life leading to marriage
Sallie Davis began her college career at Southern Methodist before transferring to the University of Texas at Austin. Her decision to transfer was influenced by a desire to be closer to her partner, Don Davis, who studied mechanical engineering at Texas A&M in the J. Mike Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Despite their different locations, he spent much of his free time traveling to visit his future wife. Sometimes, this involved hitchhiking between Austin and Dallas, determined to stay connected despite the miles between them.
"He would usually get picked up by an Aggie," Sallie Davis said. "I typically rode with one of my friends when going to Texas A&M."
After several years of balancing college and frequent road trips, the couple married during her senior year. Their marriage coincided with the completion of her undergraduate studies and marked the start of their shared life. Once married, she moved to College Station to live with Don while he finished his final year of his undergraduate degree.
Though she was not enrolled at Texas A&M, Sallie was immersed in the culture and traditions of Aggieland, instilling a love and passion for the university. Within the year, they welcomed their first child, and Sallie made the decision to stay home to raise their children while Don continued his education at Texas A&M, eventually earning his MBA.
"Don interviewed, and he got a lot of job offers," she said. "He got a job offer from everybody he interviewed with. He did not take the highest-paying job because he really was interested in what a company is all about."
Following graduation, Don Davis accepted a position at Allen-Bradley and, over time, advanced to become CEO of their parent company, Rockwell Automation. The family moved to various locations due to his career, but eventually settled in Milwaukee.
Philanthropic values
As a family, the Davises focused on their children's upbringing and education. Later, their interest in philanthropy increased. They supported organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club and contributed to Texas A&M.
"Don really believed in that, and he started a fund that he put money into, and we could not use the money for ourselves; we could only give it away," she said.
Throughout their lives, the couple established six endowments in the College of Engineering. Their support has contributed to academic programs and assisting students and faculty in engineering.
"Don loved Texas A&M," she said. "The culture, the traditions -- everything about it. He loved Aggieland so much."
The most recent endowment, named the Sallie and Don Davis '61 Career Development Professorship in Mechanical Engineering II, was created to support the department's faculty. The professorship will assist mechanical engineering professors as they teach and foster growth in engineering students.
Sallie and Don Davis' connection to Texas A&M University and their contributions through endowments demonstrate sustained support for education and the College of Engineering.
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Original text here: https://news.engineering.tamu.edu/news/2026/06/05/endowment-fuels-faculty-development-in-mechanical-engineering/
Hawaii CC Chancellor Susan Kazama Announces Retirement Following 40 Years at UH
HONOLULU, Hawaii, June 6 -- The University of Hawaii issued the following news release:
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Hawaii CC Chancellor Susan Kazama announces retirement following 40 years at UH
Hawaii Community College Chancellor Susan Kazama will step down on July 31 to retire, concluding a 40-year career with the University of Hawaii that has spanned five campuses and nearly every level of higher education leadership.
Kazama, a Hilo native was appointed as the permanent chancellor of Hawai'i CC in July 2024 after serving a year in an interim capacity. She is retiring in part to spend more time caring for her
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HONOLULU, Hawaii, June 6 -- The University of Hawaii issued the following news release:
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Hawaii CC Chancellor Susan Kazama announces retirement following 40 years at UH
Hawaii Community College Chancellor Susan Kazama will step down on July 31 to retire, concluding a 40-year career with the University of Hawaii that has spanned five campuses and nearly every level of higher education leadership.
Kazama, a Hilo native was appointed as the permanent chancellor of Hawai'i CC in July 2024 after serving a year in an interim capacity. She is retiring in part to spend more time caring for herelderly parents.
"Returning home to lead a college in the community that raised me has been one of the greatest privileges of my life," Kazama shared in a message to the campus. "Looking back on four decades at the University of Hawaii, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve students and communities across our state, and especially for the chance to return home to lead Hawaii Community College."
"Mahalo to Chancellor Kazama for her dedication and service to the University of Hawaii and her steadfast leadership at Hawaii Community College," said Interim Vice President for the UH Community Colleges Lui Hokoana. "Susan's deep roots on Hawaii Island and her commitment to building pilina (relationship) have profoundly elevated the campus and its students. We are deeply grateful for her dedication and wish her the very best in her well-deserved retirement."
Advancing Hawaii CC
During her time as interim and permanent chancellor, Kazama steered the college through a period of growth, stability and renewed momentum. Under her leadership, Hawaii CC rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic, achieving an 8.7% increase in enrollment, record-high student retention and success rates, and a full seven-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
Her tenure reflected a strong commitment to student success, workforce development and community engagement. She expanded educational opportunities at the Palamanui campus and Ko Education Center, launched the college's first drone certification program, supported multiple butchery cohorts, and helped secure scholarship funding through community partnerships.
Among her most significant accomplishments was securing an agreement for a 16-acre land acquisition dedicated to sustainable agriculture, creating new opportunities for hands-on learning while supporting food security and workforce development on Hawaii Island.
She also strengthened community relationships, expanded philanthropic support, and helped advance Hawaii CC's mission as a premier Native Hawaiian-serving institution rooted in culture, innovation and opportunity.
A career of service
Born and raised in Hilo, Kazama graduated from Waiakea High School before earning bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Her UH career began in the libraries at Maui Community College and Honolulu Community College before she joined UH Manoa's Hamilton Library. She later served as library and learning resources director at Kapiolani Community College and went on to hold senior leadership positions across the UH System, including interim vice chancellor for academic affairs at both Kapiolani CC and Honolulu CC.
Nationally recognized for her expertise in accreditation, Kazama served as a commissioner, vice chair and chair of the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, helping shape accreditation standards and policy for community colleges throughout the western United States and Pacific region.
Throughout her career, Kazama focused on strengthening student success, institutional effectiveness and community partnerships, leaving a lasting impact on UH and the students it serves.
"What I leave with most strongly is this lesson: the leadership of a kauhale (village) means we must work together on behalf of student success, trust, culture and institutional transformation," Kazama said. "The things that matter most can never rest on the shoulders of a single person. They require all of us."
An interim chancellor for Hawaii CC will be announced in the weeks ahead to ensure a smooth transition.
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Original text here: http://www.hawaii.edu/news/article.php?aId=14624
Grand Valley State University: Mantella Interviews 2 Former U.S. Presidents, Caps Milestone Year Chairing Economic Club
ALLENDALE, Michigan, June 6 -- Grand Valley State University issued the following news:
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Mantella interviews 2 former U.S. presidents, caps milestone year chairing Economic Club
President Philomena V. Mantella capped her term as Board Chair of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids with a historic career milestone -- welcoming and interviewing former U.S. presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
The June 2 discussion she led was part of the club's 50th Anniversary celebration at DeVos Place. The 37th Annual Dinner, attended by more than 3,500 people, brought the two former presidents to
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ALLENDALE, Michigan, June 6 -- Grand Valley State University issued the following news:
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Mantella interviews 2 former U.S. presidents, caps milestone year chairing Economic Club
President Philomena V. Mantella capped her term as Board Chair of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids with a historic career milestone -- welcoming and interviewing former U.S. presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
The June 2 discussion she led was part of the club's 50th Anniversary celebration at DeVos Place. The 37th Annual Dinner, attended by more than 3,500 people, brought the two former presidents toGrand Rapids for a conversation on leadership, civility and the future of the nation.
The event also honored Mark J. Bissell, as recipient of the 2026 Businessperson of the Year Award, and the DeVos Family as recipients of the Slykhouse Community Leadership Award.
"Sharing the stage with two former presidents and having the opportunity to celebrate Mark Bissell and the DeVos Family was truly the honor of a lifetime," Mantella said.
"Serving as chair of The Econ Club during this milestone year has inspired and challenged me while also driving home the importance of stewardship of organizations that build community while nurturing and celebrating leadership."
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Original text here: https://www.gvsu.edu/gvnext/2026/mantella-interviews-2-former-us-presidents-caps-milestone-year-chairing-economic-club.htm
Dr. Joseph Wu Named Recipient of EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activity Award
PLATTEVILLE, Wisconsin, June 6 -- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville issued the following news:
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Dr. Joseph Wu Named Recipient of EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activity Award
Written by Gaile Schwickrath
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science proudly announces that Dr. Joseph Wu, professor, chemistry, has been selected as the 2025-2026 recipient of the EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activity Award. This prestigious honor recognizes Dr. Wu's sustained record of innovation, impactful scholarly contributions, and dedication
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PLATTEVILLE, Wisconsin, June 6 -- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville issued the following news:
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Dr. Joseph Wu Named Recipient of EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activity Award
Written by Gaile Schwickrath
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science proudly announces that Dr. Joseph Wu, professor, chemistry, has been selected as the 2025-2026 recipient of the EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activity Award. This prestigious honor recognizes Dr. Wu's sustained record of innovation, impactful scholarly contributions, and dedicationto advancing undergraduate research.
Dr. Wu's research program stands at the forefront of sustainable materials, green chemistry, and analytical sensing, with an emphasis on translating scientific discovery into real-world solutions. His work has led to more than 50 peer-reviewed publications in respected scientific journals, contributing to the growing visibility and reputation of UW-Platteville in the broader research community.
A hallmark of Dr. Wu's recent accomplishments is the award of a U.S. patent in 2025 for the development of bio-composite materials for 3D printing using milk proteins, created in collaboration with Dr. John Obielodan, professor and chair, mechanical and industrial engineering. This innovative work emerged from efforts to address challenges faced by dairy farmers during the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming surplus milk into sustainable, value-added materials. The project exemplifies Dr. Wu's ability to combine scientific expertise with community impact while advancing environmentally responsible technologies.
Dr. Wu's research excellence has earned significant recognition, including the 2026 Carl E. Gulbrandsen Innovator of the Year Award from the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation and WiSys. His work has also garnered extensive regional and national media attention, highlighting both the societal relevance of his research and its contribution to economic and environmental innovation.
His success in securing external funding and innovation support further underscores the strength of his research program. Through initiatives such as the Dairy Innovation Hub and multiple applied research grants, Dr. Wu has developed a robust portfolio supporting interdisciplinary collaboration, technology development, and student involvement. In addition to his patented work, he has filed multiple patent disclosures, continuing to expand the impact of his research through commercialization and practical application.
Central to Dr. Wu's work is his commitment to engaging and mentoring undergraduate researchers. Students in his laboratory participate in hands-on projects involving advanced materials, environmental applications, and analytical techniques, often contributing directly to funded research initiatives. His mentorship has helped students secure competitive awards and fellowships, including recognition from the American Chemical Society and McNair Scholars programs
Dr. Wu also contributes to the advancement of teaching and learning through his involvement in scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL) initiatives, including interdisciplinary work on AI literacy and ethical integration of emerging technologies in education. These efforts reflect his holistic approach to academic excellence--bridging research, teaching, and innovation.
Colleagues describe Dr. Wu as a highly productive and collaborative scholar whose work consistently connects fundamental research with real-world impact. His ability to integrate research, student development, and community engagement exemplifies the mission of the College of EMS and the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
The EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activity Award recognizes faculty who demonstrate outstanding achievement in research, scholarship, and creative activity. Dr. Wu's sustained productivity, innovative contributions, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists make him an exceptionally deserving recipient.
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Original text here: https://www.uwplatt.edu/news/dr-joseph-wu-named-recipient-ems-excellence-research-and-scholarly-activity-award
CalState-Channel Islands: Dr. Kathryn M. Howard Appointed Dean for the School of Education
CAMARILLO, California, June 6 -- California State University Channel Islands campus issued the following news release:
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Dr. Kathryn M. Howard appointed Dean for the School of Education
Dr. Kathryn M. Howard has been appointed as the next Dean for the School of Education at Cal State Channel Islands, effective June 12, 2026.
Dr. Howard brings more than two decades of experience in higher education leadership, teacher preparation, and applied linguistics research to this role. She holds a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from the University of California, Los Angeles, and her scholarly work,
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CAMARILLO, California, June 6 -- California State University Channel Islands campus issued the following news release:
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Dr. Kathryn M. Howard appointed Dean for the School of Education
Dr. Kathryn M. Howard has been appointed as the next Dean for the School of Education at Cal State Channel Islands, effective June 12, 2026.
Dr. Howard brings more than two decades of experience in higher education leadership, teacher preparation, and applied linguistics research to this role. She holds a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from the University of California, Los Angeles, and her scholarly work,grounded in issues of equity and social justice for multilingual children and their families, informs every dimension of her leadership practice.
Central to Dr. Howard's work at CSUCI has been the design and direction of the Ventura County Teacher Residency partnership, a multi-district initiative built on the conviction that teachers should come from the communities they serve. Under her leadership, the residency program has grown into a regional model for community-rooted, clinically rich teacher preparation, securing the funding to support financially sustainable pathways into the profession for aspiring educators. She has also led full CTC accreditation cycles, built field placement partnerships across dozens of school districts and county offices, and championed recruitment and advising strategies designed to make teacher credentialing more accessible to candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.
Dr. Howard's career spans faculty and administrative leadership at the University of Pennsylvania, CSU San Bernardino, and CSU Channel Islands, where she has served as Associate Dean, Department Chair, and Program Director. Her peer-reviewed scholarship has appeared in leading journals and edited volumes, including a co-edited volume with Cambridge University Press.
As Dean, she looks forward to deepening the School of Education's partnerships, strengthening its programs, and advancing its commitment to preparing educators who reflect and serve the diverse communities of Ventura County and beyond.
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Original text here: https://www.csuci.edu/news/releases/kathryn-howard-20260605.htm
