College of Education (COE)
College of Education Appoints New Dean’s Fellows for 2026–27 Academic Year
Tuesday, 18 August 2026 - Learn about the Dean’s Fellows and their contributions to the University of Memphis College of Education.
The University of Memphis College of Education (COE) has appointed Dr. Laura Casey and Dr. Christian Mueller as its new Dean’s Fellows for the 2026–27 academic year.
Casey is a professor in the Department of Instruction and Curriculum Leadership, and Mueller is a professor in the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research.
The appointments mark the first time in five years that the College has named Dean’s Fellows. Casey and Mueller will work with the Dean’s Office to support key academic and strategic priorities while maintaining their faculty appointments.
Casey will support the work of the Graduate Curriculum Council and Undergraduate Curriculum Committee. Her responsibilities will also include student recruitment, grant writing and development, grant procedures and post-award processes.
“I am honored to have been selected as a Dean’s Fellow in the College of Education,” Casey said. “This opportunity will allow me to collaborate with leadership and work closely with COE faculty, staff and students to highlight the great work we all do. I am most excited about connecting with future and current students, supporting faculty and College initiatives and helping the COE make an even larger impact both on campus and in the Memphis community.”
Mueller will support tenure and promotion and the third-year review process. His responsibilities will also include graduate student services, faculty research and recognition, the Honors Program and student advisory committees.
“I have been with the UofM for 20 years, and I have never felt more hopeful about the direction of the COE under the leadership of Dean Miller and our outstanding faculty and staff,” Mueller said. “I am excited about this opportunity and look forward to collaborating with our educational and community partners to continue serving our students, improving education in our communities and accomplishing big things this coming year. Go Tigers!”
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Casey and Dr. Mueller to these important leadership roles,” said Dean Michael Miller. “Their experience and commitment to excellence will strengthen the College as we continue to support our faculty, students and academic programs.”
The Dean’s Fellows will also represent the College at university and professional meetings throughout the academic year in support of the Dean’s Office.
The College of Education congratulates Casey and Mueller on their appointments and looks forward to the leadership and expertise they will bring to their new roles.