College of Education welcomes distinguished alumna Sydnee Dickson to new leadership role
The College of Education has appointed Sydnee Dickson as Clinical Professor in the
Department of Educational Leadership & Policy and inaugural Special Assistant to the
Dean for Strategic Initiatives.
Dickson retired as Utah State Superintendent of Public Instruction and will join the college this fall, having stepped down from her superintendent role in July 2025. She returns to the college where she earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership & Policy in 2007, bringing with her an impressive 43-year career spanning roles as teacher, counselor, principal, district administrator, and state superintendent for the past nine years.
“What makes the College of Education distinctive in the university ecosystem is that we invariably bridge theory and practice—and do so in ways that impact our community for the better,” Dean Laanan said. “It is an honor to welcome a powerhouse like Dr. Dickson back to our ranks, who invited our 2025 graduates to simply 'look up' in her moving convocation speech last May.”
In her dual role, Dickson will leverage her extensive experience to enhance the college's strategic initiatives and strengthen partnerships across Utah's educational landscape. Her leadership approach emphasizes data-driven, human-centered strategies that have created significant and lasting impact on Utah's education system.
"Dr. Dickson is deeply dedicated to the department, college and university's mission and vision," said Larry Parker, outgoing chair of the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy. "Her availability represents a rare opportunity to bring into the college a leader with exceptional expertise and commitment to advancing research, partnerships, and our overall success and impact."
Dickson brings established relationships with superintendents, charter school leaders, and state policymakers that will enhance the college's visibility and influence among educational leaders and practitioners. Her appointment strengthens the college's role as a strategic partner in education transformation across Utah and beyond.
“It’s an honor to join the College of Education in a role that continues the work I care deeply about—preparing strong, effective educators and leaders who make a real difference for students. I look forward to working with Dean Laanan and the college’s talented team to tackle big challenges and build pathways that lead to opportunity and success for all learners,” Dickson said.
Throughout her tenure as state superintendent, Dickson has shaped numerous statewide initiatives, including educator pipeline development, literacy improvement programs, college and career readiness standards, personalized competency-based learning, and STEM education expansion. Her national recognition includes service on prestigious boards such as the Council of Chief State School Officers, the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, WestEd, and the Hoover Institution Advisory Council.