The Hamline University School of Education welcomed three new members to its leadership team this fall.  Dr. Donald Easton-Brooks has been named associate dean and accreditation coordinator of the school. Dr. Rachel Endo has been named chair of the Teacher Education Department. And, Dr. Chad Ronnander has been named division leader of the licensure program.

“Dr. Easton-Brooks, Dr. Endo, and Dr. Ronnander are outstanding scholars and caring leaders,” said Dean of the School of Education Sheila Wright. “Their combined experience as committed academic contributors, thorough understanding of the intricacies involved in teacher education, and extensive research skills and connections bring a new opportunity for constructive change both in the preparation of teachers and leaders and also to the community at large.”

In his new position, Easton-Brooks will help to ensure the integrity and smooth operations of the School of Education and its programs, with a significant role in strategic planning efforts, goal setting and implementation, and in assessing accreditation for the school, along with ensuring consistency both within and across academic programs. 

“I am excited about being part of an institution with such a great national reputation,” said Easton-Brooks on his new position. “I look forward to helping the School of Education combine its reputation of quality service and teaching with a research agenda aimed at enhancing the field of education."

In her new role, Dr. Endo has primary authority at the department level for the academic integrity of the curriculum and effective governance of academic affairs. This includes course planning and scheduling; curricular and program development; student advisement; budgeting authority; assessment of candidates’ learning and professional readiness; and ensuring the smooth operations of all departmental operations and student services on a day-to-day basis.

“The Teacher Education Department offers top-quality licensure programs where practice naturally intersects with theory,” Endo said. “I am honored to help lead a group of exceptionally talented students and excellent faculty who will be central in our ongoing efforts to maintain Hamline’s national recognition as transformative agents in teacher education.”

In his new role, Dr. Ronnander will manage and lead all administrative staff working with teacher licensure and ensure that related School of Education records, data management coordination, and partnerships with external agencies are well managed and attentively addressed in a timely manner.

“Hamline has earned a powerful reputation for producing excellent, caring teachers, deeply committed to the success of their students and their communities,” said Ronnander. “It is home to some of the most innovative teacher licensure programs in the country, with a special commitment to preparing teachers to succeed with students from all backgrounds and to take on the greatest challenges facing our schools in the 21st century. The faculty and staff pride themselves on providing the highest level of student service, and I am honored to be joining such a strong team.”

Easton-Brooks, Endo, and Ronnander began their new appointments in September.