Lorrie Webb, Ph.D., Dean of the A&M-Central Texas College of Education and Human Development, has been named an Impact Academy Fellow by the national non-profit organization Deans for Impact (DFI).
Webb joins a cohort of leaders chosen for their commitment to educator preparation by building on the existing strengths of current degree programs at their respective colleges and universities. She is one of 18 leaders announced as part of the fellowship’s 10th cohort.
“It is a distinct honor to be selected as a 2025 Impact Academy Fellow with Deans for Impact,” Webb said. “I look forward to engaging with a community of dedicated leaders committed to advancing excellence and innovation in educator preparation.”
DFI Fellows lead programs that serve 11 states, both public and private universities, community colleges, residencies, and teaching fellowships – all of which are unified around strengthening existing programs and producing exceptional and prepared teachers ready to thrive in their careers.
Participants also benefit from monthly learning sessions and one-on-one coaching from seasoned educational leaders. Activities are designed to encourage strategies and best practices that thoroughly prepare new teachers as they transition from degree program completion to fieldwork to careers in the classroom.
“Educator preparation leaders play a critical role in shaping how new teachers are set up for long term success,” said Valerie Sakimura, Executive Director of DFI.
“From prioritizing instructional improvement in their programs, to supporting their teams to meet the evolving needs of schools and communities, to advocating for innovative and sustainable practices, they carry an immense responsibility in shaping the future of teaching and learning.”
In the last three years, 155 students have earned their teacher certification through the A&M-Central Texas educator preparation program, and 127 (82%) of these graduates are actively employed as teachers – which is comparable to the national average. In addition, 100% of students in the educator preparation program pass their pedagogy and professional responsibilities exam.
The Texas A&M University System has prepared highly qualified teachers for Texas schools and beyond for more than 100 years, and the 11 universities of the A&M System prepare more highly qualified educators than any system in the State.