Lynn University Appoints Nationally Recognized Educator as Dean of Education

BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 21, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- When students return to the classroom on Aug. 25, they'll notice a familiar face in a new role at the university's Donald E. and Helen L. Ross College of Education. Lynn University appointed Kathleen Weigel, an educator with more than 38 years of experience, as its new dean of education. Weigel first joined Lynn in 2012 as an adjunct education leadership professor.

"We are thrilled to have Dr. Weigel, with her vast administrative experience and knowledge of the K-12 system, lead our Ross College of Education," says Vice President for Academic Affairs Gregg Cox. "Not only is she a proven administrator, but she also brings a wealth of national experience and a well-recognized research agenda."

A Florida native and no stranger in the classroom, Weigel worked in the Broward County School District for six years and in the Palm Beach County School District for 32 years, where she served 20 as a principal for local schools, including Atlantic High School, Santaluces High School, Woodlands Middle School and Lantana Middle School. In 2006, Weigel opened the new Atlantic Community High School, where she created a strong single school culture and implemented a creative, rigorous curriculum. Most recently Weigel served as an adjunct professor for Florida Atlantic University since 2002, teaching curriculum and educational leadership courses.

Weigel's first mission is to implement a strategic roadmap for Lynn's College of Education, which offers both undergraduate and graduate programs that specialize in elementary education, educational leadership and exceptional student education programs. Weigel anticipates her plan will expand undergraduate student opportunities to enable students to practice the different roles found in education while studying—a major differentiator for the educational program at Lynn.

"Education is my passion, and I want students in our program to feel inspired to learn, and to want to pass their knowledge and skills on to their own students," says Weigel. "I hope that our graduates leave Lynn's doors prepared and excited to pursue a career in education. As a department committed to genuine teaching and learning, we will do whatever it takes to make sure they're ready."

Alumni from Lynn's College of Education pursue successful careers in both public and private school districts and serve in jobs such as assistant principals and district supervisors. Many of the university's Ed.D. and undergraduate students enter the Palm Beach County School District.

Aside from her experience inside the classroom, Weigel acted as a senior consultant for the nationally recognized company, Scholastic - International Center for Education in Leadership and Successful Practices Network. Weigel also is recognized nationally for her work with schools across the U.S. and has delivered numerous educational conference keynote speeches.

About Lynn University
Lynn University is an independent, innovative college based in Boca Raton, Florida. With more than 2,000 students from 90 countries and nearly all 50 states, the school is consistently ranked among the top five most international schools by U.S. News and World Report's Best Colleges. Lynn's NCAA Division II Fighting Knights have won 22 national titles, its Conservatory of Music features a world-renowned faculty of performers, and its nationally recognized Institute for Achievement and Learning empowers students with learning differences to become independent learners. The school's Dialogues of Learning curriculum, award-winning iPad program and international student base help Lynn graduates gain the intellectual flexibility and global experience to fulfill their potential in an ever-changing world. For more information, visit: www.lynn.edu.

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SOURCE Lynn University