College of Education News

Recent changes in administration

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The College of Education (COE) is excited to introduce a new set of leaders. They have expressed confidence, passion and excitement for their new roles.  

Dr. Marjorie Shavers

Dr. Marjorie Shavers
Dr. Marjorie Shavers

Dr. Marjorie Shavers is now the associate dean for COE. 

“Serving previously as school director and department head has been an extraordinary journey of growth, learning and collaboration with some of the most passionate and talented people. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our college’s success as associate dean and help lead us to new levels of excellence.” 

Dr. Kayla Lewis

Dr. Kayla Lewis
Dr. Kayla Lewis

Dr. Kayla Lewis is interim director for the School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies. 

“I’m excited to work alongside the wonderful faculty and staff in the school this year! This role offers me new opportunities to grow in my leadership, problem–solve various challenges and build relationships with students, colleagues and community partners.”  

Dr. A. M. Baker

Dr. A. M. Baker
Dr. A. M. Baker

Dr. A. M. Baker is director of the School of Teaching, Learning and Developmental Sciences. 

“I’m excited to work with some of the most amazing educators MSU has to offer. I can’t help but look forward to working with passionate people who daily are focused on teaching.” 

Dr. Julie Steiger

Dr. Julie Steiger
Dr. Julie Steiger

Dr. Julie Steiger is assistant director of the School of Teaching, Learning, and Developmental Sciences. 

“I’m fortunate to work in a school that always puts the needs of its students first. I also am excited to work with Dr. Baker, whose compassion, expertise and innovation will further the college’s role as a leader among teaching institutions.” 

Dr. Nicole West 

Dr. Nicole West
Dr. Nicole West

Dr. Nicole West is the graduate program director of Missouri State University’s new EdD program in Leadership, Learning and Educational Change. She is also continuing as assistant director for the School of Teaching, Learning and Developmental Sciences.  

“This role is exciting because it’s an opportunity to build on my success in helping master’s students in the College of Education develop competence as scholarly practitioners, which is also a primary focus of the new doctoral program.” 

MSU faculty joins National Down Syndrome Society board

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The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) elected Dr. Marjorie Shavers to its Board of Directors this September.  

“Joining the board is deeply personal to me,” said Shavers, director and associate professor of the School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies and associate interim dean of the College of Education at Missouri State University. 

“As a mother to an extraordinary son with Down syndrome, I want to help create a world where he and others like him are embraced and celebrated for their unique strengths and abilities.” 

Shavers will serve a three-year term with a chance for renewal. Her first board meeting takes place in December. 

“I’m so proud of this; I feel honored to contribute in such a meaningful way,” she said. 

Beyond advocacy 

Shavers believes society needs to do more than accept people with Down syndrome.  

“It’s not just about advocating for acceptance but forging a society that eagerly anticipates their contributions,” she said. 

Shavers wants to improve education for teachers and academic professionals so they can best support people with Down syndrome. 

“As a leader in the College of Education and a board member, I aim to influence the education sector, nurturing educators and professionals who can provide unparalleled support to students with Down syndrome,” she said. 

“We must equip our educational institutions with the knowledge and compassion to empower these students and their families, ensuring they thrive in every aspect of their academic journey.” 

About NDSS 

Founded in 1979, the NDSS seeks to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families through policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities and changing public perceptions.  

They aim to ensure all people with Down syndrome are valued by a more inclusive society and are assured of their human rights.  

The organization provides resources for everyone, including an About Down Syndrome and a Preferred Language webpage.  

Learn more about NDSS