Office of the Provost
Reappointment of Dean Jason Irizarry – Neag School of Education
Dear Colleagues,
Following a comprehensive five-year review, I am pleased to share that Dr. Jason Irizarry has been reappointed for a second five-year term as Dean of the Neag School of Education, effective August 23, 2026. I extend my sincere appreciation to the review committee, and to all faculty, staff, students, and partners who contributed valuable insights during the process.
Since his appointment in 2021, Dean Irizarry has led the Neag School of Education with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to equity, access, and excellence. Under his leadership, the School has advanced its academic programs, expanded student support, deepened community engagement, and strengthened its national profile as a top- 30 Public Graduate School of Education.
During his tenure, the School has achieved notable gains in student success and access, including the expansion of the Early College Experience (ECE) program from 201 students in 2021–22 to over 900 students across 25 districts in 2024–25. The Teacher Certification Program for College Graduates (TCPCG) and the UConn Administrator Preparation Program (UCAPP) have been redesigned to improve affordability, quality, and alignment with workforce needs. Scholarships for students have doubled, and application fee waivers have supported the recruitment of a more diverse doctoral student body.
Dean Irizarry has also championed excellence in academic and research initiatives. During his tenure, the Neag School launched the Center for Connecticut Education Research Collaboration (CCERC), introduced the Neag School of Education Journal, and supported the creation of Rapid Research Briefs for Alliance Districts. The School’s extramural funding portfolio continues to grow and now comprises roughly one-third of its operating budget. Dean Irizarry’s leadership has been instrumental in enhancing research infrastructure, promoting faculty scholarship, and securing the largest individual philanthropic gift the School has received in 25 years.
A steadfast advocate for equity and inclusion, Dean Irizarry has prioritized diversifying the educator workforce, expanding outreach efforts, and embedding equity throughout the School’s strategic priorities. Under his leadership, the Neag School became a member of the National Holmes Scholars Program to support underrepresented doctoral students. He has been widely recognized as an equity-driven, collaborative leader who fosters a culture of transparency, shared governance, and community.
Across the university and state, Dean Irizarry is known as a respected partner and advocate. He has cultivated meaningful relationships with K–12 educators, policy leaders, alumni, and donors, strengthening the School’s impact and elevating its visibility. Stakeholders consistently describe him as an accessible, principled, and innovative leader who brings compassion and strategic thinking to the complex challenges facing education today.
Please join me in congratulating Dean Jason Irizarry on his reappointment. I look forward to our continued work together to advance the mission of the Neag School of Education and to support the faculty, staff, students, and partners in making education more effective, equitable, and just for all.
Best,
Pamir Alpay
Pamir Alpay, PhD
Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
University of Connecticut
UConn | Provost’s Office
Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor: Materials Science & Engineering, Physics