February 2025
Dean Al Smith Named Interim USU President by Utah Board of Higher Education
On February 12, the Utah Board of Higher Education named Alan L. Smith interim president of Utah State University. Smith has served as dean of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services since July 2021 and became the first inaugural Emma Eccles Jones Endowed Dean in June 2024. “I am honored to be entrusted by the board with the responsibility of leading Utah’s land-grant institution, a true gem that profoundly transforms the lives of individuals, families, and communities across the state,” Smith said.
Research & News
Shawn Whiteman Named Interim Dean of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services
Shawn Whiteman, associate dean for research and innovation at CEHS and professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, has been named interim dean of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services. The move follows Dean Al Smith’s transition to interim president of Utah State University on February 20.
USU Online Psychology Undergrad Program Ranked #21 in the Nation
The Department of Psychology, housed within the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services, has been a trailblazer at the university when it comes to producing a top-notch online bachelor’s degree program. In February, U.S. News & World Report announced its annual rankings for top online degrees in 2024, and USU’s online Psychology Bachelor’s Degree was ranked 21st in the nation.
The Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research Center Funds Research Across the State of Utah
The Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research Center has recently awarded 10 catalyst grants for research related to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The state-funded center is committed to research and support for the rapidly growing number of adults in Utah who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia and those who care for them.
USU Hosts Annual Academic Olympiad for 26 Utah High Schools
In January, more than 200 students from 26 Utah high schools participated in the Academic Olympiad, where students demonstrated their academic skills in math, science, language arts, and social studies. The Academic Olympiad is held every January on the USU Logan Campus. The collaboration between the Northern Utah Curriculum Consortium (NUCC) and USU began in 1985, and the partnership has continued to honor the academic skills of high schools in Northern Utah.
Students, Faculty, and Staff of CEHS Awarded for Their Outstanding Achievements
Eighteen individuals in CEHS received recognition for their efforts in promoting the college and university mission and vision for 2025. Recognition includes awards for excellence in teaching, research, service, and other support functions. Interim Dean of CEHS Shawn Whiteman said, “It is with great pride and admiration that we recognize this year’s CEHS award winners.”
Upcoming Events
Graduate Symposium
Laura Porter, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of MedicineIn Sickness and in Health: Dyadic Interventions for Coping with Chronic Illness
Wednesday, March 26
12:00 Noon
Distance Ed 013 and via Zoom (Contact Amber Summers-Graham to register.)
2025 CEHS Graduation
6:30 PM Academic Procession
7:00 PM University Commencement Ceremony, Dee Glen Smith Spectrum
Thursday, May 1
11:00 AM CEHS Convocation for Graduate Degrees, Dee Glen Smith Spectrum
1:30 PM CEHS Convocation for Undergraduate Degrees, Dee Glen Smith Spectrum
Note: A clear bag policy will be in effect for all commencement events. Learn more.