Four Professors Selected As Faculty Fellows

Four faculty members in The College of Education and Human Development have been selected as the Transforming Lives Faculty Fellows. Drs. Beverly Irby, Radhika Viruru, Paul Keiper, and Oi-Man Kwok will each be recognized for providing transformational learning experiences for CEHD students.

“The impact these faculty members have had and continue to have on our students is a true testament to their commitment to shaping and supporting transformational learning in and out of the classroom,” said CEHD Dean Dr. Joyce Alexander. “Their work continues to shape the future of our students and our college.”

Dr. Irby has served a prominent role within the department of Educational Administration and Human Resource Development. She’s contributed research in various fields including bi-lingual education and educational administration on the state and national level.

“Dr. Irby’s leadership has positively impacted the department through her great people skills and through her skills of building positive relationships,” said EAHR Department Head Dr. Fred Nafukho. “In addition, she is very collaborative in her research and grant and activities and continues to be a great mentor to her students and faculty colleagues.”

Dr. Keiper has led various campaigns within the Division of Sport Management — many of which have involved coaching leadership and partnerships with national organizations.

“Through his work as Undergraduate Coordinator for HLKN and Online Coordinator for Sport Management, his leadership has paved the way for new courses and new and innovative ways courses can be delivered,” said Sport Management Division Chair Dr. Matt Walker. “Not only have the faculty and students benefitted from this engagement, but the HLKN community has seen the direct influence of his work. “

Dr. Kwok’s research in the Department of Educational Psychology focuses on health related quality of life and various forms of data analysis. He has also had an active presence mentoring graduate students including chairing multiple doctoral student committees.

“Dr. Kwok has taken the lead in developing the Research, Measurement, and Statistics program into one of the top programs in the U.S.,” said EPSY Department Head Dr. Vic Willson. “His example in leading graduate student research and publications is stellar for graduate students who aspire to the university career.”

Dr. Viruru’s work in early childhood education within the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture, has incorporated technology with different areas of learning for students. Other areas of her research include technology integration and postcolonial perspectives on education. She was recently appointed as the new director of the Online Ed.D Program — as she is an avid user of technology and has long been recognized for her ability to innovatively teach online courses that correspond with students. Her research continues to identify new and significant developments in PK-12 classrooms.