Get to Know Kjersti VanSlyke-Briggs, Dean of the College of Education

February 4, 2026 - 02:17

Kjersti VanSlyke-Briggs, Dean of the College of Education at Empire State University, recently shared insights into her unexpected journey into academia and her vision for the future. Her career path was not one she initially charted for herself. "I never envisioned myself as an academic," VanSlyke-Briggs revealed. "It was a path that I landed on and continued to follow because of my passion for learning and for supporting both students and educators."

Now at the helm of the college, her goals are firmly centered on innovation and support. She aims to foster programs that are responsive to the evolving needs of modern classrooms and to create a robust community for aspiring and current education professionals. Central to her philosophy is a deep-seated belief in lifelong learning, a principle she embodies and hopes to instill across the college's initiatives.

VanSlyke-Briggs emphasizes the importance of connecting theory with practice, ensuring that educator preparation is both rigorous and deeply relevant. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to accessibility and excellence, aiming to empower a new generation of teachers and administrators. Through her guidance, the college continues to focus on developing impactful educational strategies and nurturing the professional growth of every student.