Dr. Barri Tinkler will become the permanent dean of Missouri State University’s College of Education on March 1. Tinkler has been the interim dean since January 2021.

“Dr. Tinkler has a strong academic and administrative record,” said MSU Provost Frank Einhellig. “Over the past year, she has helped the College of Education envision the future of teacher education.”

Tinkler joined Missouri State as associate dean of the College of Education and professor of education in August 2019. She also served as the interim department head of counseling, leadership and special education from May-December 2020.

“I am excited for the opportunity to continue to work with the superb faculty, dedicated staff and amazing students in the College of Education,” Tinkler said.

“The College of Education has an important legacy within the university and across the state. That legacy continues today through the commitment of faculty to prepare professionals who make significant contributions to communities across our region.”

Tinkler’s academic background

Tinkler served in several administrative roles at the University of Vermont from 2009-19. She was:

• The CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) coordinator.
• Program coordinator for the doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies.
• Department of education vice chair.
• Secondary social studies coordinator.

Tinkler also worked at Shepherd University from 2005-2009 and Towson University from 2004-2005.

She was a Fulbright Scholar at the University of Calgary in 2018.

Tinkler is an author of several dozen peer-reviewed articles, book chapters and books. She’s also presented dozens of times at national and international conferences.

Tinkler earned a bachelor’s degree in history education from Northeastern State University, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Oklahoma State University, and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from the University of Denver.