- “Denise is exceptionally well qualified and has established a record of effective, visionary leadership,” said Dr. Jaromy Kuhl, UWF provost and senior vice president. “She is well-positioned to lead the UWF School of Education and develop the next generation of educators.”
Before accepting this position, Soares served as the assistant dean and director of graduate studies and interim director of the National Center for School-University Partnerships at the University of Mississippi. Previously, she held the roles of assistant chair and director in the School of Education at the University of Mississippi. For nearly two decades, Soares served as a classroom teacher and administrator, as well as a consultant for public schools and parents. Her academic research expertise includes applied and practical experiences in academic and behavior interventions for at-risk students.
- “I am honored to assume the role of the new dean of the School of Education at the University of West Florida,” Soares said. “The School of Education is poised to make substantive contributions to the University’s mission and vision of creating partnerships and promoting excellence, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead those efforts. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the esteemed faculty, dedicated staff, and talented students to cultivate an environment that promotes innovation and transformative learning experiences. Together, we will continue to elevate the reputation of the School of Education and empower our graduates to positively impact the lives of the individuals they encounter throughout their professional endeavors.”
Soares holds a doctoral degree in educational psychology from Texas A&M University, master’s in administration and supervision from the University of Houston and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Texas State University.
For more information about UWF’s School of Education, visit uwf.edu/education.