Dr. Peter C. Murrell, Jr.

Dr. Murrell will be responsible for guiding the establishment of the new school, which will encompass Loyola’s growing undergraduate and graduate programs in education, including determining the most appropriate timeframe for the school’s launch.

“This is a very exciting time for Loyola, as we prepare to recognize the increasing depth and breadth of our education programs with the creation of a new school dedicated to their advancement,” says College President Brian F. Linnane, S.J. “I am confident that Dr. Murrell’s extensive experience--particularly in the field of urban education--will prepare our school to become a leader in the preparation of teachers, school counselors and others in the field of education.”

Dr. Murrell holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Carleton College, a master’s degree in Experimental Cognitive Psychology from the University of Wisconsin and a Ph.D. in Urban Education with a specialization in Educational Psychology, also from the University of Wisconsin.

His research interests include cognition and learning, human development in social and cultural context and the social and cultural contexts of urban schooling. A prolific writer, Dr. Murrell is the author of four books, including his most recent, 2007’s Race, Culture, and Schooling: Identities of Achievement in Multicultural Urban Schools. He has also authored or co-authored dozens of articles and book chapters.

He joined the faculty at Northeastern University in 1996 after holding positions at Wheelock College, Alverno College and Marquette University.

Prior to completing his Ph.D., Dr. Murrell served as a high school teacher in Milwaukee.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Loyola community,” says Dr. Murrell.  “I am looking forward to this opportunity to lead the emergence of the School of Education. I am thoroughly energized by the prospect of leading a higher education community so clearly committed to developing the human potential of our future educators and to grapple with the critical issues of urban education.”

Dr. Timothy Law Snyder, Loyola’s Vice President for Academic Affairs, led the search for the founding dean.

“Even before Dr. Murrell arrived on our campus, I and members of our expert search committee heard of his deep intellect and his dedication to the education of children,” says Snyder. “Dr. Murrell brings Loyola ample experience and scholarly innovation, with an approach focused tightly and passionately on assuring educational success at the very locus at which it takes place—in the minds and lives of youngsters—with a goal of actualizing the great potential for meaning and achievement that lies within each individual. This approach is wholly consonant with the Ignatian tradition.” 

Loyola College’s Education programs include undergraduate specializations in Elementary, Secondary and Special Education as well as master’s programs in Teaching, Administration and Supervision, Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Technology, Montessori Education, Reading, School Counseling and Special Education.