Department of Higher Education
The Department of Higher Education at The University of Mississippi’s School of Education is dedicated to developing scholar practitioners who embrace the principles of ethical, just, and effective research, scholarship, and practice at institutions of higher learning. Promoting access, opportunity, accountability, and excellence are central to our work in Higher Education and Student Affairs.
Introduction to the Department of Higher Education
We believe the strength of the Higher Education department at the University of Mississippi is found in our students, faculty, and programs. Our students are drawn from across a range of life experiences, educational interests, and future aspirations. Our faculty offer rich expertise, quality teaching, and a commitment to the success of each of our students. Our online and residential programs are designed to help you combine theory and practical learning experiences to drive positive change in postsecondary institutions and the field of Higher Education and Student Affairs.
Join the Student Personnel Association!
The University of Mississippi’s Student Personnel Association (SPA) is made up of current graduate students, alumni, and faculty of the Higher Education/Student Personnel program as well as current professionals within the Division of Student Affairs. The Student Personnel Association works in conjunction with the Department of Higher Education and the Student Affairs Professional Development Committee to offer professional development and networking opportunities for individuals interested in the current status of higher education and the development of students.
SPA is a registered student organization for individuals interested in the current status of higher education and the development of students. The SPA Executive Board works closely with the Department of Higher Education and the Student Affairs Professional Development Committee to offer professional development and networking opportunities for our members.
We believe that education does not end when the students leave the classroom, and we constantly search for ways to grow, learn, and develop skills as student affairs professionals and educators. Additionally, we host professional networking and social events to encourage connection and relationship-building between HESP graduate cohorts.
President
- Abbey Hogan (hogan@go.olemiss.edu)
Vice President of Programming
- Taylor Pierce (tpierce@go.olemiss.edu)
Vice President of Promotion & Outreach
- Anika Jarvis (aljavis@go.olemiss.edu)
General Contact: umSPAexec@gmail.com
If you are interested in becoming a member, please email umSPAexec@gmail.com.
Cost of Membership
- $25 - Students pursuing One Year of Residential/Online Master's
- $40 - Students pursuing Both Years of Residential/Online Master's
- $30 - Students pursuing Doctoral Programs
Meet our Faculty and Staff
Phillis George
- Department Chair and Associate Professor of Higher Education
Kim Chrestman
- Operations Coordinator II
Macey Edmondson
- Assistant Professor of Higher Education
George McClellan
- Professor of Higher Education
Kerry Melear
- Professor of Higher Education
Patrick Perry
- Learning Specialist
Amy Wells Dolan
- Associate Dean and Professor of Higher Education
Whitney Webb
- Assistant Dean for Certification and Undergraduate Studies and Clinical Assistant Professor of Higher Education
Jenay Willis
- Assistant Professor of Higher Education
Emeritus Faculty
Meet the faculty whose dedicated contributions to teaching across various areas of the Department of Higher Education have left a lasting impact.
Dr. John Holleman Emeritus Clinical Associate Professor of Higher Education Dr. Holleman served as the inaugural Director of Graduate Studies for the School of Education and as a Clinical Associate Professor of Higher Education. In this role, he oversaw the School of Education's Graduate Studies Office and was a dedicated advocate for graduate student success. Prior to his Director role, Dr. Holleman served as the long-term and sole Graduate Program Coordinator for the Department of Higher Education. Dr. Holleman earned an undergraduate degree from Stephen F. Austin State University, a master’s degree and doctorate from Texas A&M University-Commerce, and an education specialist degree from the University of Memphis. He also earned a master’s degree in English as a Second Language from the University of Mississippi in 2002 and has been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 1993. His work in higher education was complemented by international travel and engagement, which enriched his perspective and contributions to graduate education. |