College of Education Team,
It was truly a privilege to host our group of administrators, faculty, staff, community partners, district liaisons, local teachers and graduate assistants at last week’s National Association of School-University Partnerships (NASUP) Conference.
Bringing a diverse team was intentional and essential. Experiencing the conference together allowed us to develop a shared understanding of the important work ahead; work centered on collaborating with our district and community partners to address meaningful problems of practice (PoPs) and to advance all dimensions of wellness that contribute to thriving communities.
Every program and office in the College of Education has a role in this effort. While teacher-licensure programs might feel the most direct connection, we all contribute to the health, success and vibrancy of the students and communities we serve. This is collective work, and our collective presence at NASUP reflects that commitment.
As shared earlier, these efforts will come together under our new Morgridge Endowed Chair Office. This team is helping shape the job description, and a subset will serve on the Morgridge Chair search committee next academic year. Over the coming year, the team will continue meeting to strengthen our school-university and community partnership structures, ensuring the chair is well positioned for success upon joining us in July 2027.
We will continue to keep you updated as this work progresses. On a different note, I’m excited to share that I’ll be heading to Florida later this week with NIU Foundation colleagues to meet with some of our college’s most dedicated supporters. I’m looking forward to sharing all the wonderful work you all are moving forward across our programs.
As we look toward the promise of spring, I’m energized by what we are building together.
With appreciation,
Mary
