60th Anniversary Celebration at Convocation

By Leetah Stanley.  Photos by LA Ricks. 

The VCU School of Education marked a significant milestone with its Convocation and 60th Anniversary Celebration on Aug. 23, bringing together alumni, faculty, students, and community members to honor six decades of educational excellence.

The event, held at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, began with a warm welcome from Interim Dean Kathy Rudasill, Ph.D., who set the tone for an afternoon of reflection and forward-looking optimism about the bright future we are building together.

Provost Fotis Sotiropoulos, Ph. D., greeted attendees and emphasized the School of Education’s vital role in shaping the university’s broader goals. He highlighted the school’s achievements and its impact on the community, noting that the past 60 years have laid a strong foundation for future success.

The program featured distinguished guest speaker Julia V. Taylor, Ph.D. (Ph.D.’16), an associate professor of counselor education and human development at the University of Virginia. Taylor offered insightful commentary on the evolving landscape of education and underscored the importance of adapting to new challenges through relationships while remaining committed to the core values that have guided the VCU School of Education since its inception.

Another key moment was a historical presentation by doctoral student Rory Dunn, which took attendees on a journey through the school’s 60-year history. The presentation showcased significant milestones, groundbreaking research and the countless contributions of faculty, students and alumni. The visual and narrative elements provided a powerful reminder of the school’s enduring legacy.

Dean Rudasill closed out the program with current highlights and points of excellence, including an impressive 64% increase in external research funding in the past five years and the school’s ranking at No. 16 of best public university schools of education by U.S. News & World Report. She expressed gratitude to all for their continued support and dedication to the school’s mission and excitement about all that lies ahead.

The afternoon concluded with a reception where attendees could reconnect, share memories and discuss the future of education at VCU.

The VCU School of Education extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this milestone event. As the school looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of preparing educators and leaders who will continue to make a difference in the world.

Enjoy the photo album here: https://ow.ly/JYAS50Tmeg8