DANBURY, CONN. — Western Connecticut State University’s new dean of the School of Professional Studies, Dr. Jess House, will begin his position on July 9, 2012.

Currently the chair of the department of educational leadership at Western Illinois University, House has also served as the educational leadership department chair at Northern Arizona University and the coordinator of doctoral programs in education leadership and curriculum and instruction at the University of Central Florida. He has also taught managing, leading, planning and budgeting as a professor at several universities. His involvement in information technology in education is extensive.

House earned his Ph.D. in educational administration from the University of Iowa and his Ed.S. in educational administration from Truman State University, from where he also holds a master’s degree and a bachelor’s degree in art education.

“We welcome Dr. House’s extensive leadership in education during a time of national education reform,” said Dr. Jane McBride Gates, WCSU provost and vice president for academic affairs. “He has vast experience as a doctoral program coordinator and has led two department faculties to receiving national recognition. In addition to his commitment to faculty and students, Dr. House has also fostered close ties with schools and community organizations. We are confident that he will help Western to continue fostering our educational goals both in the campus community and in the community that we serve.”

For more information, contact the Office of University Relations at (203) 837-8486.

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.