I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Burnett Joiner as Dean of the School of Education and Social Work. After serving with distinction in an interim capacity since 2022, Dr. Joiner will now assume the role full time, providing steady leadership and vision for the School as it continues to grow and evolve.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Joiner has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, collaboration, and student success. An experienced higher education leader, he most recently served as Professor and Dean of Graduate Studies at Benedict College. His distinguished career also includes service as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Benedict College, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Wiley College, Dean of the College of Education at Mississippi Valley State University, and President and CEO of Livingston College and Hood Theological Seminary.
Dr. Joiner earned a PhD in Education and Psychology from the University of South Carolina, an MA in Educational Administration from Bradley University, and a BS in Education from Alcorn State University.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Joiner has served in a wide range of educational leadership roles, including professor, assistant superintendent, principal, teacher, and trustee. Nationally, he has contributed to numerous educational associations, councils, and advisory groups, including the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the U.S. Department of Education.
Known for his collaborative leadership style, Dr. Joiner brings extensive experience in academic strategic planning, grant development, donor relations, institutional advancement, and expanding the use of technology to enhance educational programs. His ability to build consensus and foster strong relationships across institutions has been a hallmark of his leadership.
Please join me in congratulating Dr. Joiner on this appointment and in welcoming him to this important role as Dean of the School of Education and Social Work.
By Nathalia Holtzman, PhD
