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DSU appoints Van Namen as Dean of College of Education, Arts, and Humanities

Cleveland, MS (05/19/2025) — Contact: Christy Riddle FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: (662) 846-4336

Email: criddle@deltastate.edu

DSU appoints Van Namen as Dean of College of Education, Arts, and Humanities

CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Merideth Van Namen as Dean of the College of Education, Arts, and Humanities (CEAH), effective July 1. Dr. Van Namen currently serves as Interim Dean and brings a wealth of experience, insight, and a steadfast commitment to the university's mission to her new role.

The selection of Van Namen follows a comprehensive national search led by a dedicated committee chaired by Dr. Vicki Bingham, Dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Sciences. The committee's rigorous and thoughtful process yielded a strong pool of finalists and was instrumental in identifying a leader who will guide the recently reorganized college into its next chapter.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leslie Griffin praised the appointment, stating, "Dr. Van Namen's desire to lead this recently reorganized college into the next phase of our academic history comes with an understanding of the challenges a leader faces in fostering a college culture that is both cohesive and reflective of the disciplines it serves. She draws from previous successes and a strong knowledge of the mission, culture, and practices of Delta State University. I am confident she is poised to provide strong and progressive leadership for the College of Education, Arts, and Humanities."

With a deep understanding of the university's academic environment and a track record of collaborative leadership, Van Namen is committed to engaging both internal and external stakeholders in the shared development of a bold and inclusive vision for the college's future.

"I am honored to serve as Dean of the College of Education, Arts, and Humanities and the opportunity to assist in shaping a new future for the college that is grounded in tradition but fueled by innovation and necessity," said Van Namen. "I look forward to what the future holds for the CEAH."

Delta State University looks forward to Dr. Van Namen's continued leadership and the future growth of the College of Education, Arts, and Humanities under her guidance. For more information on CEAH programs, visit deltastate.edu/education-arts-humanities/.

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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.

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Dr. Meredith Van Namen

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