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Maureen E. Kenny, interim dean of the Lynch School of Education since 2011, has been named the ninth dean of the school by University President William P. Leahy, SJ.
In a letter to faculty in August, Interim Provost and Dean of Faculties Joseph Quinn praised Kenny for her effective leadership, which has enabled the Lynch School to maintain its strong reputation both nationally and internationally, and for the strategic planning process she has undertaken to strengthen the school in the years to come.
Kenny’s appointment also won praise from Lynch School faculty who have worked closely with her since her arrival as assistant professor in 1988.
“During her time as interim dean, Maureen has displayed thoughtful stewardship and insightful leadership for the Lynch School,” said Lynch School Professor of Education Law and Public Policy Diana Pullin, who served as dean from 1987-1994. “She is a strong scholar with a deep understanding of the challenges facing educators and psychologists. We are in very good hands as we move forward.”
Kenny, who was named full professor in the Lynch School in 2005, had also served as the school’s associate dean prior to her appointment as interim dean. In addition, she served as dissertation liaison, chair of the Department of Counseling, Developmental and Educational Psychology, and program director for MA and PhD programs in Counseling. Her research interests include relational factors as contributors to school engagement and career development among urban high school youth, and preventive interventions for promoting healthy academic, social and physical development among urban elementary school children.
“I am very proud to assume the position of dean in the Lynch School, and I look forward to advancing the strategic priorities identified by the faculty, staff, and administration over the past year,” said Kenny.
“We will continue our foci on preparing reflective professionals in education, applied psychology, and research who are leaders and agents of social change in their fields and in producing innovative and collaborative research that is grounded in social justice and informs educational and social policy and practice.”
A graduate of Brown University, Kenny holds a MEd from Columbia University and a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania.
The Lynch School of Education is ranked 19th in the United States by US News & World Report.