UNC Greensboro has appointed Dr. Morgan Chitiyo as the next Dean of the School of Education after a comprehensive national search. Dr. Chitiyo, who currently serves as the Interim Dean of the School of Education, will assume the permanent role on May 1, 2026.
“The School of Education plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of educational professionals, counselors, and leaders who serve communities across North Carolina and beyond,” said Provost Alan Boyette. “Dr. Chitiyo has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration throughout his tenure at UNC Greensboro. His leadership as the Interim Dean has provided stability and forward momentum, and I am confident he will continue to elevate the School’s impact.”
Dr. Chitiyo has served as the Interim Dean of the School of Education since January 2025. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Chitiyo served as Professor of Special Education and Chair of the Department of Specialized Education Services (SES), roles he had held since 2020. Dr. Chitiyo successfully navigated the department through the pandemic, boosted enrollment through marketing and partnerships, and championed collaborative solutions to challenges.
“I am deeply honored to be appointed Dean of the School of Education and grateful for the confidence placed in me by the University’s leadership,” said Chitiyo. “At a time when education is both facing profound challenges and offering transformative opportunities, I am energized to partner with our outstanding faculty, staff, and students to lead with purpose and vision. Together, we will strengthen our commitment to excellence in teaching, research, service, and community engagement, while expanding our impact in preparing the next generation of educators and leaders. I look forward to building on the school’s momentum and advancing bold, innovative work that serves our communities and shapes the future of education.”
Before joining UNC Greensboro, Dr. Chitiyo held leadership roles at Duquesne University’s School of Education, including Director of the Special Education Program (2013–2017) and Chair of the Department of Counseling, Psychology, and Special Education (2018–2020).
An internationally recognized scholar, Dr. Chitiyo’s research focuses on positive behavior supports, autism, inclusive education, and special education professional development. He has advanced international special education through teacher preparation initiatives and research, and by guiding international dialogue in the field through his editorship of leading international journals. His accolades include the 2019 Tennessee Tech Distinguished Alumnus Award and the 2017 Duquesne University Presidential Award for Excellence in Service.
Dr. Chitiyo earned his PhD in Exceptional Learning with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis from the Tennessee Technological University, College of Education in 2005.
The UNC Greensboro School of Education holds accreditation from multiple respected organizations, such as the American Library Association, the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Dr. Morgan Chitiyo will succeed Dr. Randall “Randy” Penfield, who served as Dean of the School of Education from 2016-2024.
UNC Greensboro also extends its appreciation to the search committee, led by Dean bruce mcclung, for conducting a robust and successful search.
