Yecke named dean of graduate programs for Harding University

Harding University

April 25, 2008

Yecke named dean of graduate programs for Harding University

SEARCY, Ark. — Dr. David Burks, president of Harding University, announced Friday that Dr. Cheri Pierson Yecke is joining the faculty and administration of Harding University this summer.

Yecke has been appointed dean of graduate programs and will also serve as an associate professor. In her role as dean, Yecke will serve as coordinator of admissions, catalogs, marketing and core policies for all graduate programs.

"We are pleased that Dr. Yecke has agreed to join our staff," said Burks. "Her wealth of experience and commitment to Christian education will strengthen our national and international presence at both the graduate and undergraduate levels."

Most recently, Yecke served as chancellor of K-12 education in Florida, where she worked for Gov. Jeb Bush. She has also served as commissioner of education in Minnesota, secretary of education in Virginia, and director of teacher quality at the U.S. Department of Education.

"Dr. Yecke's background shows that she is a skilled communicator and effective organizer," said Dr. Larry Long, vice president for academic affairs. "Her leadership abilities and wide experience in education will help us put more focus and emphasis on the more than 20 graduate programs we currently offer."

Yecke received her bachelor's degree in history from the University of Hawaii, a master's degree in teaching from the University of Wisconsin, and a doctoral degree in gifted education from the University of Virginia.

She was an award-winning classroom teacher for 10 years before moving into the education policy arena. Yecke has published two books, numerous articles, and has given multiple presentations across the nation.

"It is an honor to have been asked to join the staff at this prestigious institution," said Yecke. "I look forward to being a part of the Harding community."

Dr. Jim Carr, Harding's executive vice president and former Floridian, said, "I have known Dr. Yecke for a long time and am very familiar with the significant role she has played in education at the national level. We look forward to the way in which she will bring this expertise to bear on our campus."

Harding had a record enrollment this year of more than 6,300 students from 49 states and 52 foreign countries. It is the largest private university in Arkansas and attracts more National Merit Scholars than any other private university in the state. Harding also maintains campuses in Australia, Chile, England, France/Switzerland, Greece, Italy and Zambia.