Kathryn Chval was named dean of the College of Education by Provost Garnett Stokes and interim Chancellor Hank Foley in a [news release Tuesday afternoon](http://munews.missouri.edu/news-releases/2016/0308-provost-interim-chancellor-name-chval-permanent-dean-of-education/). Her new position is effective July 1.
Chval was named acting dean of the college following former Dean Dan Clay’s temporary departure in September 2015. Clay’s departure became permanent after he announced he would become the College of Education dean at the University of Iowa on Feb. 8. Stokes said that Chval, who was previously an associate dean in the college, would continue in her role of acting dean.
“In her short time as acting dean, Kathryn Chval has proven that she has the leadership qualities and vision needed to guide the College of Education into the future,” Foley said in the news release. “Her scholarship and record of embracing diversity comes at a critical time at Mizzou.”
Chval, who has worked at MU since 2003, is a professor of mathematics education. She has led several diversity initiatives within the college, such as helping education students learn how to teach children with diverse backgrounds, according to the release. Chval also [helped initiate The Bridge](http://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/higher_education/new-initiative-at-mu-aims-to-foster-student-conversation-about/article_193d005c-88dd-11e5-a208-5b1f2f7868b8.html), a program that provides a safe space for students to discuss discrimination.
“Her work to open the conversation among her faculty, students and staff while simultaneously improving the curriculum will ensure that our education students become the best teachers for students from all backgrounds in schools throughout the nation,” interim Vice Chancellor for Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Chuck Henson said in the news release.
_Edited by Taylor Blatchford | tblatchford@themaneater.com_