Gray named as dean of College of Graduate Studies

Dr. Jon Gray has been appointed dean of the College of Graduate Studies at Lamar University, bringing over 30 years of career experience as an educator and administrator in K-12 and higher education to the role.

Dr. Gray previously served as associate dean of educator preparation and accreditation since 2023, where he oversaw 34 undergraduate and 18 graduate educator certification programs and nearly 7,000 students within the College of Education and Human Development.

His academic preparation includes a B.S. in Exercise & Sports Studies from Tarleton State University, M.S. in Educational Administration from Texas A&M Corpus Christi, and an Ed.D. in Physical Education Pedagogy from the University of Houston. In addition, he received a post doctorate in curriculum and instruction/school reform from the U.S. Department of Education's Center for Research on Education, Diversity & Excellence.

Gray has numerous peer-reviewed publications ranging from educational resilience and teacher effectiveness to exercise identity and wellness coaching, and he has presented at conferences across state, national and international platforms, sharing expertise and knowledge to help advance the field of education.

As dean of the College of Graduate Studies, he will lead key initiatives to support one of the largest graduate education programs in the state and the nation.

"The dean leads the College of Graduate Studies, ensuring academic excellence across all graduate programs offered throughout Lamar University's five academic colleges," Gray said. "Additional oversight includes policy and governance, strategic development, student support and mentorship, and serving as the chair of the Graduate Council."

Having held faculty appointments at three Texas universities and with a teaching history of more than 15,000 students, Gray is well equipped to meet the needs of the College of Graduate Studies while growing existing programs and partnerships.

"The framework for the College of Graduate Studies initiatives will be to further strengthen Lamar's relationships with industry and educational partners across Southeast Texas," he said. "Texas has the eighth largest economy in the world and Southeast Texas, especially in the energy sector, is a major player in the United States."

Gray looks to place student success at the forefront by continuing to invest in academic and professional development.

"It is crucial for Lamar to promote student success through mentorship, internship opportunities, and preparation for post-graduate careers or further academic pursuits," he said.

Looking ahead, Gray plans to advance innovation and expand opportunities for the faculty, staff and students in the College of Graduate Studies.

"I am most excited about working with graduate faculty and students to drive innovation in graduate education, including online program expansion, research initiatives, and career development resources for graduate students."