The University of Vermont has announced the appointment of Katharine Shepherd as dean of the College of Education and Social Services, effective Jan 15. Shepherd is the Levitt Family Green and Gold Professor of Education, who has served as interim dean of the college since July 2021.
“Katie is a collaborative and servant leader who brings both excellent scholarship and thoughtful leadership to her role,” said UVM Provost Patricia Prelock. “I look forward to continuing our work together to enhance the success of the college.”
Shepherd joined the CESS community in 1986. In addition to her extensive teaching record, she has held numerous leadership positions, including special education program coordinator; vice chair of the education department; interim associate dean for academic affairs and research; associate dean for academic affairs; and interim dean of the college.
As interim dean, Shepherd supported two significant efforts that contribute to the college’s offerings and reputation and to the university’s bid for R1 status, including the establishment of a new doctoral program in social, emotional and behavioral health and inclusive education, and a new doctoral program in counselor education and supervision.
In addition to her roles as a teacher and administrator, Shepherd is a nationally recognized scholar in the areas of educational leadership and family-professional partnerships, collaborative teaming, and state and schoolwide implementation of inclusive policies and practices. She has co-written two books and authored or co-authored 35 peer-reviewed journal articles, 16 book chapters and 17 additional publications.