The College of Education at the University of Nebraska at Kearney will be under new leadership next year.
Jesslyn Hollar, who previously served as department chair and associate professor of teacher education at UNK, has been named the next dean of the college, starting June 1. She replaces Mark Reid, who has served as the dean of the college for the past six years and is transitioning to a faculty position.
“UNK has a rich legacy of preparing educators for Nebraska’s schools and communities,” said Hollar. “I am excited to build upon that legacy as we prepare students for people-first and community-forward professions, supporting the mental, physical and intellectual well-being of citizens in Nebraska. Thriving communities in Nebraska are the direct result of collective investment in preparing young people for these professions. Our graduates return to their hometowns with a desire to do good work.”
Before her time with UNK, she held faculty and leadership positions at Marist College, Southeast Missouri State University and Edgewood College.
“Dr. Hollar brings a strong record of leadership in educator preparation and a clear commitment to student success,” Julie Shaffer, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs said. “She is a thoughtful, collaborative leader who understands the evolving needs of schools and communities across Nebraska. Her focus on program quality, partnerships and continuous improvement will position the College of Education for continued success.”
Reid joined UNK from Texas A&M-Commerce (now known as East Texas A&M), where he spent 14 years. He is currently the longest tenured dean amongst UNK’s three academic colleges.
Brooke Envick is wrapping up her first full year as dean of UNK’s College of Business and Technology, and Paul Twigg is finishing his fourth and final year as dean of UNK’s college of Arts and Sciences. In March, Twigg was named Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. Janet Eckerson has been named interim dean.
