Ellen McIntyre has served as the dean of the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences at the University of Tennessee since 2000. Prior to UTK, Ellen served as dean of the Cato College of Education at UNC Charlotte for seven years. Ellen has expertise in teacher education, specifically in the field of literacy.
Why did you decide to join DFI’s board?
DFI has been the most important professional organization I have been part of in my career. The organization's mission speaks to me, and the work is tightly aligned to the mission. The work has supported me as a leader and now it is time to give back.
What is one pivotal moment in your career that helped shape how you view your own role in supporting instructional quality?
I was a young teacher educator at the University of Louisville, just doing my job and enjoying it--with little reflection on the importance or purpose of the work. It was a dinner party in which we were discussing children and schooling. Some parents were near tears as they spoke of experiences their children had in schools. One mother turned to me with great gravity and intensity and said, "The work you do impacts lives. Teachers can make or break a child. You must prepare them well." of course, I knew that, but my thoughts had been more theoretical before that night.
Describe a teacher or student who made a lasting impact in your life.
My senior year in high school I suffered a bout of depression and quit attending school. But for nearly the whole year, I attended my first period of class (Journalism) and then left school. My high school journalism teacher took me in, gave me great assignments, and protected me. It was as if she knew something was wrong but also that these assignments was the medicine I needed.
What most excites you about the work of transforming educator preparation?
I like to share the sense of urgency around this work.