Syracuse Sun

The School of Education at Syracuse University has announced the addition of six new faculty members for the fall 2024 semester. These appointments bring expertise in various fields including counseling and counselor education, faculty development, instructional design, inclusive STEM education, and music education.

Dean Kelly Chandler-Olcott expressed enthusiasm about the new hires: “I very much look forward to collaborating with our new faculty members, who help to fulfill the promise of the school’s and University’s academic strategic plans and initiatives.” She highlighted the significance of these additions in light of Central New York's expanding tech sector and the University's focus on STEM scholarship.

Chandler-Olcott also emphasized that two new counseling faculty will address the growing need for culturally sensitive school counselors, mental health counselors, and counselor educators. Additionally, she noted that Professor Jessamyn Neuhaus would direct the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence.

Sabrina M. Butler joins as an assistant teaching professor of counseling and counselor education. Previously a doctoral student at the University of Central Florida, Butler’s research includes areas such as feminist ethical decision-making in supervisor-supervisee relationships and trauma-informed approaches to romantic break-ups.

David DeAngelis has been appointed as an assistant professor of music education. His previous roles include serving as an instructor at Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music. DeAngelis’s research focuses on beginning instrumental instruction and diversity issues in music education.

Heather F. Lavender is now an assistant professor of inclusive STEM education. Formerly a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Georgia Mary Frances Early College of Education, Lavender's research interests include antiracist science learning and professional development for teachers.

Ahram Lee joins as an assistant teaching professor specializing in multiculturalism within counselor education. Her past experience includes a visiting professorship at Syracuse University from 2022 to 2024.

Jessamyn Neuhaus will serve as director of the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) while also being a professor in the School of Education. Neuhaus brings over two decades of classroom experience along with her scholarly work on cultural studies and teaching excellence.

Rob Pusch has been named an assistant teaching professor focusing on instructional design, development, and evaluation (IDDE). Pusch was previously senior associate director at Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) where he oversaw instructional material design among other responsibilities.

These appointments are expected to enhance both educational practices within their respective fields and contribute significantly to ongoing academic initiatives at Syracuse University.

___