Dr. Kimberly Gaiters chosen to lead School of Education at Virginia Union University
May 23, 2019
Dr. Kimberly Gaiters, an experienced educator who has helped to shape debates over issues related to higher education, community development, and public policies, has been chosen as the next Dean of the Evelyn Reid Syphax School of Education at Virginia Union University, President & CEO Dr. Hakim J. Lucas announced Thursday, May 23, 2019. Her appointment is effective July 2019.
“I am delighted to join Virginia Union at such an exciting time in its history,” Dr. Gaiters said. “Dr. Lucas is assembling an outstanding team, one that will undoubtedly further his vision of dynamic growth within the University’s undergraduate and graduate programs.”
Dr. Gaiters comes to VUU after serving as Dean of Academic Affairs at Ferrum College, and as faculty of Special Education, Chair of Teacher Education and Dean of the College of Education at Albany State University.
“I am confident Dr. Gaiters will foster academic excellence that will inspire our faculty, staff, and students,” Dr. Lucas said. “She is the innovative leader we need as we embark on a re-imagined educational experience for the 2019-2020 school year.”
Dr. Gaiters began her professional career as an English teacher at her high school alma mater in 1994. After three years, she decided to pursue a Master’s degree and teaching position in Special Education. She holds a Doctorate in Education from Georgia Southern University in Curriculum Studies; a Master of Education Degree in Special Education, and an Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision from Albany State; and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, also from Albany State.
While at Albany State and Ferrum, Dr. Gaiters worked collaboratively with sister institutions to earn nearly $22 million in grant funding to support projects such as Georgia’s Project Skilled Credentialed Early Intervention Specialists, the Network for Enhancing Teacher Quality, and STEM Scholars in Biology.
Dr. Gaiters has been acknowledged for her leadership and has garnered awards and recognitions such as the American Council on Education Women’s Network Virginia Senior Leader (2018), Albany State University 50 under 50 (2015), Southwest Georgia’s 40 Under Forty (2009), the National Association of Professional Women (2008), Albany State University Teacher of the Year (2006-2007), Women Making Magic Steel Magnolia Award (2005).
Dr. Gaiters is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., as well as Saint Teresa’s Catholic Church where she has served as a communion minister and President of the Parish Council. She is also the proud mother of four children: Chasen, Kelsey, Kensley, and Jasmyn.