APU Names Dean of the School of Education

Azusa Pacific Names Anita Henck as Dean of Education Azusa, Calif–Azusa Pacific University President Jon R. Wallace, DBA, announced the selection of Azusa resident Anita Henck, PhD, as dean of the School of Education, following her six months of service as interim dean, effective immediately.

“After an intense, nationwide search process, Azusa Pacific has chosen Dr. Henck to lead the School of Education,” said Wallace. “Her passion for K–12 education, compelling vision for the School of Education, and collaborative leadership style will set the tone for our faculty, staff, and students. Under her direction, the School of Education will serve the needs of California’s schools and its teachers during this challenging time for K–12 education.”

As dean of APU’s School of Education, Henck will provide direction for seven departments, more than 40 programs, and 66 full-time faculty. She will oversee the creation and implementation of programs, projects, and initiatives that meet the school’s goals.

“I am honored to serve the students, faculty, and staff of APU’s School of Education,” said Henck. “I am aware of the important relationships between our school and our extended constituency of K–12 students who benefit from teachers, student personnel service providers, principals, and superintendents educated at APU, as well as parents, school districts, and the communities we serve. I am committed to enhancing these partnerships as we work toward innovative educational best practices.”

Henck brings extensive higher education experience in both academic and professional roles to her new position. Since her arrival at APU in 2006, she has worked as a faculty member, program director, and chair in the Department of Leadership and College Student Development, while holding a joint appointment with doctoral education. She was vice president for student development and retention, and professor in the Departments of Psychology and Education at Eastern Nazarene College from 1998–2006. During the 19 years spent at American University, Henck held numerous posts that advanced the work of the Offices of the President and Provost.

“Dr. Henck has an unwavering commitment to higher education, and is an accomplished and strategic leader, admired for a strong track record of faculty and staff advocacy,” said Provost Mark Stanton, PhD “With these skills and abilities, she is the ideal person to guide our School of Education into a promising future.”

Henck holds a B.A. in Psychology from Indiana University, and an M.A. in Educational Administration and Ph.D. in Education from American University.

The School of Education at Azusa Pacific University equips teachers and administrators for excellence and leadership in educational settings. Offering more than 26 graduate degrees in education, the school provides an Ed.D. program and accredited teaching credential and master’s programs, including degrees in special education, school psychology, physical education, school librarianship, and educational technology.