As a graduate of the College of Education & Human Development, you chose a career path that makes a difference in the lives of others and inspires them to do the same. And as a proud Ragin' Cajun, when you left here, you also became a part of something that will outlast your diploma. Now, students are walking a similar path you once did and are benefiting from opportunities donors like you helped to make possible.
This year, several students from our Educators Rising college chapter competed at the National Educators Rising Conference in Portland, Oregon, winning one national championship and earning top-10 finishes in multiple categories. We're also incredibly proud that one of our graduates, Abbey P., was named Outstanding Undergraduate for both the College and the University, reflecting her dedication to community service, teaching excellence, and academic achievement.
As the new Interim Dean, I'm excited about what lies ahead and, together with our supporters, look forward to building on our momentum by:
- Launching Summers at the Learning Lab, a six-week design-thinking enrichment program at our Lab School, which will be led by pre-service teachers, graduate students in counseling and educational leadership, and local educators.
- Reimagining our post-bachelor's teacher preparation and special education add-on certification programs to better align with market demands, while addressing the evolving workforce needs of the teaching profession.
- Redesigning existing College of Education facilities to create accessible peer-to-peer collaborative spaces for all students.
Because of donors like you, our faculty members continue to achieve exceptional milestones. In January 2026, we secured a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education aimed at integrating AI into our teacher preparation curriculum. And because of a substantial donor gift, we were able to further enhance our annual STEM Extravaganza community outreach event, which reached 600 middle school students across the region this year.
So much more awaits the College and our students. To continue to be among those who help build what’s next, make a gift today.
With heartfelt thanks and lasting Ragin’ Cajun pride,
Dr. Peter Sheppard
Interim Dean, College of Education & Human Development