In an email last week, Emporia State announced appointments for the deans of the Teachers College and the School of Science and Mathematics following nationwide searches to fill the positions.
Sara Schwerdtfeger, who has served as interim dean of the Teachers College since May 2023, will serve as the permanent dean for the college.
Schwerdtfeger is an alumnus of ESU and has 25 years of experience as an educator. She previously held positions as an associate dean of the Teachers College and was the department chair for the elementary education, early childhood, and special education program.
During her time at ESU, Schwerdtfeger helped to establish the Masters in Elementary Education and Elementary Education Unified programs, and she continues to teach in the classroom.
“Sara’s passion for building upon our foundations is demonstrated by her experience leading the Teachers College as the interim dean, as well as her admirable service as a faculty member, department chair and associate dean,” said ESU Provost Brent Thomas in a Nov. 13 email announcement. “Sara has shared her devotion to expanding (the excellence of the Teacher’s College), ensuring the college continues to lead in educational advancements and teacher preparation.”
Tim Burnett will permanently serve as the dean of the School of Science and Mathematics after serving as interim dean for the school. According to Thomas’ Nov. 14 announcement, Burnett is the first dean appointed to the School of Science and Math.
“Tim brings a wealth of experience as a long-time faculty member, former department chair and his time serving as interim dean,” said Thomas. “His work to obtain significant external support for undergraduate research is impressive and demonstrates Tim’s dedication to academic excellence and leadership.”
Thomas says that Burnett is “fully prepared” to build on the hands-on learning traditions of the science and math programs.
“I am confident Tim is the right person to lead the School of Science and Mathematics into the future,” he said.
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