Pedersen named dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences

Friday, March 5, 2021

A new dean for the College of Education and Human Sciences on the Stillwater campus was approved by the OSU/A&M Board of Regents at their meeting today.

Dr. Jon E. Pedersen currently serves as a tenured professor of instruction and teacher education and dean of the College of Education at the University of South Carolina. He is expected to transition to OSU on or about July 1, 2021.

“I am honored and thrilled to be part of the OSU College of Education and Human Sciences family,” he said. “The unique combination of disciplines that make up this college made this a special opportunity. 

“To be part of the proud Cowboy tradition at OSU and work with the wonderful faculty, staff, students and alumni humbles me as I think about my selection as the inaugural dean. Personally and professionally this is an exceptional opportunity and both my wife and I are excited to be part of OSU and the Stillwater community.” 

Dr. Pedersen was one of three finalists who participated in an intensive 2.5-day virtual interview process following a national search that began early last fall.

Pedersen holds a doctorate in science education curriculum and instruction, a master's degree in curriculum and instruction and a bachelor's in agriculture-animal nutrition, all from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). He has served as dean at the University of South Carolina since 2016 and has more than 30 years of experience as a faculty member and administrator, including appointments at UNL, the University of Oklahoma, East Carolina University and the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville.

“I am confident we succeeded in identifying the individual best suited to lead the College of Education and Human Sciences, and I look forward to Dr. Pedersen joining the Academic Affairs leadership team,” said Provost Dr. Gary Sandefur. “I congratulate him on his selection and welcome him to the OSU family.” 

Since the College of Education and Human Sciences was established in July 2020, Dr. Stephan M. Wilson has served as interim dean. From 2008-2020, Wilson was dean of the College of Human Sciences. He also served as interim dean of the College of Education, Health and Aviation from 2019-2020, guiding the transition to one, new college.

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