Fort Lewis College has appointed North Carolina-based candidate Tiece M. Ruffin as the college’s School of Education dean after a national search, the college announced last week in a news release.
Ruffin, who is a first-generation college graduate and holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Ohio University, touts more than 20 years in the education field, according to the release.
Her most recent role was at the University of North Carolina Asheville, where she served 16 years, most recently as chair of the Department of Education and previously as a professor, the U.S. Fulbright Scholar faculty campus liaison and the director of Africana Studies.
Ruffin is also part of the 2026 American Association of State Colleges and Universities Department Chair Leadership Institute and has led and participated in grant-funded educational initiatives in Malawi, Ghana, El Salvador and Colombia, supported by the U.S. Department of State, among other organizations.
“Dr. Ruffin’s experience addressing teacher shortages, strengthening partnerships, and preparing educators to serve rural, culturally, and linguistically diverse communities will serve our students and faculty well,” FLC Provost Mario Martinez said in the release. “Her expertise in accreditation, assessment, compliance, academic innovation, and vision-setting will be key to the continued success of the School of Education.”
Ruffin will lead the School of Education “in ways that leverage campus resources and external partnerships, highlighting the Four Corners region’s sense of place to enhance transformational programs,” the release said.
Her core priorities will include expanding English Language Learner programming, advancing community responsive initiatives and strengthening partnerships with tribal nations and Indigenous communities, according to the release.
“I am honored to join Fort Lewis College, where the commitment to student-centered, experiential learning and community engagement aligns with my background in educator preparation, advancing equity-focused programs, and fostering strong partnerships between schools, universities, and communities,” Ruffin said in the release. “I am excited to work at a campus that intentionally designs learning experiences connecting students to culture, environment, and community.”
Former School of Education Dean Jenni Trujillo announced her departure in spring 2025, and Chiara Cannella has served in an interim capacity since. Ruffin officially steps into the role July 15.
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