News

Lee University has named Dr. Deborah Murray as Vice President for Academic Affairs, effective July 1. Her position is one of seven vice presidential posts under Lee President Dr. Paul Conn.

Joining the faculty in 1980, Murray has served in the Helen DeVos College of Education for more than 30 years. In addition to being a distinguished professor of education, she has also served as dean of the HDCOE, department chair, director of Teacher Education Programs and director of Graduate Programs in Education.

Under her leadership as dean, the program enjoyed sustained success and growth, and throughout her tenure, Murray has set an example for all as a superb classroom teacher and mentor to several generations of students.

“I look forward to working more closely with all of Lee’s faculty as I broaden my focus from teacher education to include all four colleges and schools,” said Murray. “It is an honor to be associated with such distinguished and dedicated individuals.”

Murray was named Lee’s Alumnus of the Year in 1997 by the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and in 2005, she received Lee’s Excellence in Advising Award.

In her new role as VP, she replaces Dr. Carolyn Dirksen who now serves the university as director of faculty development.

Murray, a graduate of Cleveland High School, earned her EdD in Curriculum and Instruction and an MS in Special Education from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and her BS in Mathematics from Lee College.