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Dr. Johnny O’Connor has been appointed dean of the College of Education and Human Development (COEHD) at Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô, following his service as interim dean since 2024. He brings more than a decade of higher education leadership within COEHD and over 16 years of experience in K–12 education, where he has held teaching, faculty, and executive-level leadership roles throughout his career.

Dr. O’Connor’s academic preparation includes studies at several distinguished institutions. He earned a B.S. and M.Ed. from Southern University – Baton Rouge, an M.B.A. from Texas Southern University - Houston, and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University – College Station. He has also completed executive training at Harvard University–Cambridge (Urban Special Education) and Rice University (Strategic Marketing and Management). In addition, he holds Texas principal and superintendent certifications, is a licensed speech-language pathologist, and is a trained mediator through the University of Texas School of Law.

A prolific scholar and presenter, Dr. O’Connor has authored numerous book chapters and peer-reviewed journal articles and has presented at conferences nationwide. He is an active member of several professional and academic organizations and has been recognized with multiple honors, and continues to exemplify a career marked by scholarship, service and leadership.

“As dean of the COEHD, I am committed to providing leadership and vision in preparing the next generation of educators, leaders, and human development professionals who will shape our schools, communities and workforce,” O’Connor said. “What excites me most is the opportunity to engage with our faculty and staff in an expanded capacity, ensuring that students not only achieve academic success but also graduate with the skills, confidence, and purpose to thrive as transformative agents in society.”

He says his foremost priority is to keep students at the center of everything the COEHD does, supporting their success and overall development, while ensuring that the college’s programs uphold the highest standards of quality practice and offerings to meet student needs.

“I am focused on strengthening educational partnerships, encouraging research that informs practice and policy, investing in faculty development, and pursuing optimization in how we operate,” O’Connor said. “Together, these priorities will ensure that we are well positioned for growth, continued innovation, and lasting impact.”

Dr. O’Connor looks to advance key initiatives within the COEHD, including the launch of new academic programs and the introduction of the newly formed COEHD Student Ambassador Program and a new Student Center to help elevate student engagement within the college.

“We have already begun extending partnerships with school districts to expand experiential learning opportunities and support their efforts to improve student achievement,” he said. “However, equally important is recognizing the dedication of our faculty and staff, with a new award program being developed to honor outstanding contributions across the college.”

Looking ahead, Dr. O’Connor plans to remain focused on the COEHD’s commitment to creative partnerships and excellence by investing in students, supporting faculty and staff, and deepening ties with the local community.

“At its core, this role is about people – students, educators, and communities,” he said. “I want our college to be a place where ideas are elevated, where collaboration fosters innovation, and where every graduate is prepared to leave a lasting mark on the world.”