In the final session of the academic year 2023-24, the Board of Trustees at East Carolina University made significant strides by appointing two new college deans.
Dr. Nicole Bromfield was approved as the dean of the College of Health and Human Performance, while Dr. Debra L. Jackson was appointed as the dean of the ECU Graduate School, effective July 1.
Dr. Bromfield brings a wealth of international academic experience spanning a 25-year career, including a notable tenure as an assistant professor at the United Arab Emirates University from 2010 to 2016. With 16 years of administrative experience in various leadership roles, she has demonstrated her expertise in scholarly pursuits and academic management.
During her recent role as the associate dean for academic affairs at the University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work, Dr. Bromfield oversaw a remarkable 30% growth in enrollment and successfully obtained full program reaccreditation. Her administrative background also includes positions at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she served as a director of student services and a student services coordinator.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Dr. Bromfield stated, “Being chosen as the next dean of East Carolina University’s College of Health and Human Performance is a tremendous privilege.” She highlighted her commitment to advancing holistic well-being through innovative research, service, and experiential learning within the HHP community.
Dr. Bromfield’s research endeavors have taken her to various countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, India, and Namibia. She is also a published author, co-authoring the scholarly book “From Intercountry Adoption to Global Surrogacy: A Human Rights History and New Fertility Frontiers,” with her research being featured in esteemed media outlets such as The Boston Globe, The National UAE newspaper, and BBC News.
Provost Robin Coger expressed her excitement about Dr. Bromfield’s appointment, emphasizing her alignment with the College of Health and Human Performance’s mission and values. She also commended interim dean Stacey Altman for her dedicated leadership during the transition period.
On the other hand, Dr. Debra L. Jackson steps into the role of dean at the ECU Graduate School, succeeding interim dean Dr. Kathleen Cox. With a robust background at California State University, Bakersfield, Dr. Jackson’s leadership style and experience are poised to drive the Graduate School’s development and growth.
Dr. Jackson’s accomplishments at CSU Bakersfield, including securing substantial funds to support student success initiatives, demonstrate her commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Her research focus on ethical and political aspects of sexual violence against women underscores her dedication to addressing critical societal issues.
As ECU navigates challenges in student enrollment and financial aid processing delays, Chancellor Philip Rogers highlighted the university’s proactive steps to support students and enhance the scholarship process. Recognizing the exemplary service of outgoing President Javier Limon, Chancellor Rogers commended his dedication to student advocacy and leadership during his tenure.
In a broader context, the Board of Trustees discussed initiatives to bolster undergraduate student recruitment scholarships, enhance campus safety measures, and renovate key university facilities. The commitment to innovation and academic excellence remains at the forefront of ECU’s strategic priorities as outlined in the upcoming Project Kitty Hawk, aimed at attracting adult learners to UNC System universities.
The next meeting of the ECU Board of Trustees is scheduled for August 1 at the Coastal Studies Institute in Wanchese, marking a continued focus on advancing the university’s mission and impact.