Welcome From the Dean
Welcome to the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences at Eastern Kentucky University! We are a community of difference makers, creating positive change throughout the Commonwealth and impacting the world. Our college is comprised of four departments with programs that equip school and community leaders: American Sign Language and Interpreter Education, Applied Human Sciences, Clinical and Therapeutic Programs, and Teaching, Learning, and Educational Leadership. We offer programs in-person, online, and using hybrid models to serve our region and the nation. If you want to be a teacher, school leader, mental health professional, dietician, or interpreter—you’ve found the right place! If you’re not sure how you want to change the world, but making a difference is important to you, we will partner with you to find your passion.
As the new Dean of the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences, I was drawn to EKU and the college because we are a School of Opportunity. I imagine you have chosen EKU in part because of our commitment to your success; from financial aid to the food pantry and faculty mentoring, we provide the support you will need to grow and graduate. Many years ago, I was a low-income student who wanted to go to college but knew my family couldn’t pay for it. A high school counselor helped me figure out how to pay for college and a university faculty mentor helped me find financial resources to finish college and prepare for graduate school. Both of them and many, many other educators and community leaders positively impacted my life, so it’s my mission to pass on that support to the next generation—you!
As you move throughout your time at EKU, please ask for help when you need it. I am here to support you. If you don’t know how to find a building or need supplies or don’t understand an assignment, ask us! Our faculty, staff, and student ambassadors are available to answer your questions and support you toward graduation. You can always reach me at Elizabeth.smith@eku.edu; I’d love to buy you your favorite Starbucks drink or meet up with you over Zoom to learn about your passion and how I can support you.
Warmly,
Dr. Elizabeth E. Smith
Dean, College of Education and Applied Human Sciences
At Eastern Kentucky University, we strive to continuously learn and develop the most effective ways to prepare teachers, leaders, and other professionals for the variety of school and professional settings that exist today. Our strategic initiatives and strategies define the primary goals, outline our work for the next five years, and ensure we achieve our primary goals.
Vision
Eastern Kentucky University’s College of Education and Applied Human Sciences will pursue excellence in teaching, learning, scholarship, and service to the university and our stakeholders, and will foster the pursuit of excellence among our students.
Mission
As Eastern Kentucky University is the School of Opportunity where everyone belongs, the faculty and staff of the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences also meet students where they are to help them achieve their goals and dreams. Student success is ensured through innovative knowledge-building and personalized support to help students develop proficiency and confidence as practitioners and leaders in their fields. The College’s graduates are lifelong learners, invested in their own development and the well-being of all with whom they work and live.
Strategic Priorities
Goal 1: Knowledge
The development and dissemination of knowledge, including the process of acquiring, reflecting on, and transferring knowledge into new contexts, is the defining characteristic of the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences. Inside classrooms, across campus, and through community-based placements, the college’s faculty and staff lead students, alumni, and stakeholders as they create, apply, and share knowledge.
Goal 2: Innovation
The College’s faculty and staff embrace the university’s call for innovative thinking and bold action. Innovative approaches to teaching and supporting students today impact graduates in the field tomorrow and empower the university’s next generation of students. A willingness to ask and define “what’s next” positions the college to strengthen families and shape communities now and in the future.
Goal 3: Transformation
Because education changes lives, transformation is central to all that the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences does. Students select majors in our college because they want to make a difference in others’ lives. To honor their ambition, the college maintains an academic environment that supports students’ intellectual growth and creativity; their desire for purpose, inclusion, and collaboration; and their ability to advocate for themselves and others. To accomplish great things, the college’s faculty, staff, students, and alumni prioritize equitable access to knowledge and opportunity, dignity, and respect for others.