Vanessa 
Sheared was named dean of the Gladys L. Benerd School of Education at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. For the past decade she has been serving as dean of the College of Education at California State University, Sacramento. Earlier, Dr. Sheared served on the faculty at San Francisco State University.
“I come to the Gladys L. Benerd School of Education with a great appreciation for the faculty commitment and dedication to preparing Pacific students who will go on to serve as teachers, counselors and administrators in diverse educational and community organizations within our region and beyond,” Dr. Sheared said. “We live in a technologically advanced, local and global market economy, which has a significant impact on how we teach and what we learn. It’s my goal to advance our presence in these arenas and to provide equitable and collaborative learning spaces and opportunities that will enable faculty, staff and students to achieve academic and professional success in their lives and careers.”
Dr. Sheared is a graduate of Wheaton College in Illinois, where she majored in sociology. She holds a master’s degree in education and counseling from Louisiana State University and a doctorate in adult and continuing education from Northern Illinois University.
Heartfelt Congratulations and Best Wishes Dr. Sheared on your new appointment!
Your mentoring and leadership in my graduate program at San Francisco State University and further graduate studies at University of San Francisco, gave me a firm foundation in Critical Pedagogy and necessary ongoing reflection. All the Best to You!