Austin Peay State University has named Dr. John R. McConnell, a nationally recognized scholar with more than 15 years of experience in higher education leadership, educator preparation, and data-informed continuous improvement, as the next dean of the Eriksson College of Education.

McConnell, a former secondary science teacher, has served the Eriksson College of Education in multiple leadership roles, most recently as interim dean. He previously served as associate dean of assessment and accreditation, chair of the Department of Educational Specialties, and professor of educational research.

“It is an incredible honor to be named dean of the Eriksson College of Education,” McConnell said. “Having had the privilege to work alongside our outstanding faculty, staff, and students for many years, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue serving this community and building on the strong foundation already in place.”

McConnell said the college’s top priority is to build a contemporary learning environment that serves as Tennessee’s premier educator preparation provider.

Read on in the full announcement on the APSU website here.