Dr. April Sanders has been named dean of the College of Innovation and Design (CID) at East Texas A&M University. CID hosts 14 interdisciplinary academic programs and is home to the university's competency-based education initiative and Investing in Us, a professional development program for university employees.
With a robust background in education, Sanders has served in numerous leadership roles, including assistant department head and department head for East Texas A&M's Department of Curriculum and Instruction. She has also served as associate dean, assistant dean, and most recently, interim dean of CID, where she successfully managed the college's strategic goals, financial budgeting, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Sanders expressed excitement about her new role. “I am honored to lead the College of Innovation and Design during this moment in our university’s history,” she said. “ Our college represents the intersection of innovation and impact, and through our genuine commitment to student success, we will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in education.”
She added: “As dean of the College of Innovation and Design, I have the opportunity to help guide talented faculty, staff and students as they discover their own potential to drive meaningful change.”
Dr. Tammi Vacha-Haase, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said Sanders is an expert in competency-based education who brings a unique perspective to help CID shape cutting-edge educational experiences.
“Dr. Sanders' collaborative approach and her ability to build strong, meaningful relationships across the institution position her to effectively address shared challenges and foster university-wide innovation,” Vacha-Haase said. “CID is in excellent hands with Dr. Sanders at the reins.”
Sanders began her career at ETAMU in 2021 as an associate professor. She has published more than 20 articles and delivered over 35 presentations. She has also helped ETAMU earn multiple awards and grants, including an external grant for more than $500,000 from the Department of Education to address teacher shortages in Texas K-12 schools.
Sanders received her Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of North Texas, her Master of Education in Educational Administration from Stephen F. Austin State University, and her Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Central Arkansas. She holds principal (EC-12) and secondary English (6-12) certifications. Her special interests in literacy, teacher education and preparation, and curriculum development reinforce her passion for transforming students’ lives through flexible and personalized learning opportunities.
Dr. Sanders will assume the role of dean on January 1, 2025.