Message from the Dean

I believe in the transformative power of education to enrich lives and strengthen communities.

Our community is built on a deep commitment to curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation—qualities that fuel our mission to prepare future educators, researchers, and policymakers to improve outcomes for learners of all ages and backgrounds.

I was drawn to the University of Illinois by the strength of its land-grant mission, its culture of interdisciplinary research, and its commitment to inclusive excellence and community engagement—principles that mirror my own.

As dean, my vision for the College of Education is grounded in three core principles: Excellence, Equity, and Engagement. Together, we will:

• Support faculty, staff, and students with the resources and opportunities needed to thrive in their teaching and research;

• Expand access to our programs by reimagining curricula, partnering with community colleges, and removing barriers to enrollment and degree completion;

• Amplify our community impact through engaged scholarship and partnerships that bring university research to bear on the most pressing educational issues of our time.

We are already leading critical research, preparing the next generation of educational leaders, and extending our reach far beyond campus through online programs, professional development, and alternative certification pathways. Our public engagement work—through initiatives such as the Education Justice Project, the Center for Culturally Responsive Evaluation and Assessment, the Champaign Freedom School, and the Youth Literature Festival—demonstrates how we bring research and service together to uplift communities.

As we look ahead, I am excited to build on our strong foundation and work collaboratively with faculty, students, alumni, and partners to further elevate the College’s impact—across Illinois, the nation, and the world.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

Chrystalla Mouza, Ed.D.
Dean and Gutgsell Professor