Fairfield University is pleased to announce that Laurie L. Grupp, PhD, currently associate provost for faculty affairs at Providence College, has been appointed dean of the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions (GSEAP), following a national search.

Dr. Grupp’s career spans nearly two decades at Providence College, where she served as director of the Center for Teaching Excellence for 11 years, and as the provost’s advisor on faculty development initiatives. In addition to her current role as associate provost for faculty affairs, Dr. Grupp has served as chair and associate professor in the Elementary Special Education Department. Her professional experience also includes teaching at Buffalo State College in the Exceptional Education Department.

With an emphasis on equity and access, Dr. Grupp’s early research focused on the school experiences of bilingual and English learners. Recently, her work has focused on teaching, learning, and educational development in higher education.

As dean of the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions, Dr. Grupp will serve on the Provost's leadership team, and will play a vital role in developing GSEAP’s vision and directing its implementation, furthering the academic reputation of the School, supporting programs, and expanding and enhancing community partnerships, as well as increasing and diversifying graduate programs.

“Dr. Grupp is an exceptional leader with extensive experience and a vision for the future of the fields of education and allied professions. She will play a critical role in shaping the School’s bold strategic vision, and advancing Fairfield’s mission and commitment to excellence, lifelong learning, and holistic formation,” said Fairfield University Provost Christine Siegel, PhD.

Dr. Grupp earned her MA and PhD degrees in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in multicultural bilingual special education from New Mexico State University. She holds a BA in psychology and philosophy from Boston College.

"The Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions offers nationally recognized and accredited graduate and professional programs,” said Dr. Grupp. “I am honored to join the Fairfield community, and I look forward to working with faculty, students, alumni, and community partners to develop a vision that furthers the School’s commitment to distinguished academic programs, teaching excellence, and strong community collaborations."

The Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions at Fairfield University has earned the reputation of being a model of excellence within its professional communities, offering a variety of nationally recognized and accredited graduate and professional programs in the fields of education, psychology, marriage and family therapy, social work, and counselor education. A caring and committed faculty offers rigorous courses of study, with a broad range of curricula that integrate critical reflection, social justice and service to others, extensive field experience, and the most current research in the field.