Sheneka Williams (left) and Emily Book (right). Courtesy photo.
Spartan, Michigan State University's College of Education, is one of 40 women honored by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine for their contributions to higher education. Faculty leaders Emily Book and Sheneka Williams have been featured in the annual publication.
According to Diverse magazine, the award honors “women who have made a difference in the academy by tackling higher education's toughest challenges, demonstrating exceptional leadership skills, and creating positive change in their respective communities.” It is said that there is. They will be honored in her February 29 issue.
emily book
Bouc, a professor of special education, was recently promoted to associate dean for research after serving in the interim position since 2021. Previously, he also served as director of special education programs within the university. She is one of the leaders in founding the Master's degree in Special Education Leadership: Multilayered Support Systems in 2019, and in 2021 she helped create the Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Did.
Currently, the university offers six degree-granting special education programs and a graduate certificate in MTSS. Since Mr. Bouck joined the university in his 2014 year, the university has consistently ranked as one of the nation's best universities offering special education programs. In 2024, MSU ranked No. 5 in the nation for online master's programs in special education.
sheneka williams
Williams, a researcher in educational policy and leadership, was appointed dean of the School of Educational Administration in 2020. Under her leadership, the department has grown, including introducing a new doctoral program, the Ed.D., in 2023. She holds a PhD in leadership for change with an emphasis on equity in postsecondary education. The Department of Educational Administration offers eight graduate-level programs, including a master's degree in student administration, which will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024. Higher Education, Adult Education, Continuing Education and Education Policy – Ranked in the top 10 in the nation for graduate studies in education.
Mr. Williams has a research background in rural education and school desegregation and was recently named co-principal investigator on a grant worth more than $7.7 million funded by the U.S. Department of Education. This initiative uses evidence-based, culturally responsive science learning initiatives to increase understanding of chemistry and physics for high school students in rural areas of the southern United States.
pride of sparta
“This external distinction highlights Sheneka Williams and Emily Book’s consistent commitment to growth,” said Gerrand F.L. Jackson, dean of the College of Education and MSU Research Foundation Professor. “In their leadership roles, they critically examine how processes and programs can be made more effective and inclusive. They are recognized leaders in research, education, and advocacy in their fields. We are honored to have them in our Spartan community.”
Graduates of the College of Education were also named outstanding leaders by Diverse. Sian Beilock, who earned multiple degrees from MSU including a doctorate in kinesiology, was also featured in the 2024 publication. Beilock will be Dartmouth College's first female president.
This story originally appeared on the College of Education website.
