Message from the Dean

Welcome to the Loyola University Maryland School of Education. I am proud to welcome you to a diverse and inclusive community of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners, all dedicated to creating life-changing opportunities through education. We are united by an unwavering commitment to promote a just and democratic society. Through a wide range of degree and credential programs led by dedicated and experienced faculty mentors, we are preparing the next generation of exceptionally prepared, inspired and committed educators, leaders, and counselors that our communities and children deserve. 

Our award winning and respected programs are designed to prepare you to be district, community, school, and classroom leaders and change agents. From undergraduate programs and graduate programs offered in-person, to our flexible online or hybrid cohort graduate programs, we blend theory and practice that will prepare you to be highly effective professionals that will make a difference in our diverse and changing world. For example, our recently-launched Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction for Social Justice program encourages students to think creatively and critically about education’s past and present inequities, its current place in society, and provide for greater equity in our globalized society. 
 
In line with Loyola’s Jesuit values, we take very seriously our commitment to cura personalis, caring for the whole person. When you join the School of Education, you will be welcomed and supported as part of our community of diverse and engaged learners. We will provide you with personalized guidance, multiple pathways, a connected and helpful network, and career opportunities that not only align with your individual goals, but help you become a change agent in your school and community.
 
Along with shaping our curricular offerings and distinctive programs to meet the needs of our students, we prioritize collaborating with the community to create long-lasting partnerships that reach beyond campus. Through our Center for Equity, Leadership, and Social Justice in Education, and Center for Community, Service, and Justice (CCSJ), we partner with local community groups, public and nonprofit organizations, and schools in Baltimore City and the region to provide learning, service, and scholarship opportunities.
 
Loyola is a growing and vibrant learning community in the heart of Baltimore, one of the most culturally rich cities in the nation fueled by creativity, diversity, innovation and entrepreneurship, and history. I invite you to view the dynamic pages on our recently updated website, visit our blog, follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram or better yet visit us in person. 
 
Learn more about our programs, faculty, research areas, and initiatives, and explore the innovative ways we prepare students to make meaningful impact in the field of teacher education, counselor education, leadership, special education, Montessori education, educational technology, and more.

Thank you for your interest in the School of Education, and the exceptional education we offer to our students. Join us as we drive education forward.
 
Sincerely,
Afra Ahmed Hersi, Ph.D.
Dean, School of Education

Loyola Ready

Afra Hersi, Ph.D., interim dean, shares her vision for the future of education—and how Loyola’s School of Education prepares teachers to succeed in their future careers