FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -The University of Arkansas College of Education and Health Professions is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Roy C. Farley to head the department of educational leadership, counseling and foundations.

"Roy Farley is a nationally respected educator and brings an impressive combination of administrative, academic and professional achievements to the department," said Reed Greenwood, dean of the college. "Our national search has yielded a top-notch candidate. Dr. Farley is a veteran of the college with the experience and skills needed to lead a diverse and growing department."

Farley, who received his doctorate in counselor education from the university in 1978, has more than 15 years of administrative, management and leadership experience. For 25 years, he was part of the UA National Center on Employment and Disabilities, including serving as professor and center director for eight years. He joined the UA counselor education program in 1999.

"I'm excited and honored to serve the department, college, and university in this role," Farley said. "I was particularly drawn to this position because of my experience with the outstanding faculty in this department, and I welcome the opportunity to support their work and further develop our programs."

Farley noted the quality of research and service that the department of educational leadership, counseling and foundations contributes to Arkansas and the nation. Its advanced degree and training programs draw educators from throughout the state, in particular through the work of the Arkansas Leadership Academy, a partnership of educational and professional organizations, universities and corporations dedicated to improving public education by developing leadership.

Departmental faculty conduct research in educational accountability and funding issues, and, through the Office for Education Policy, aid lawmakers and policymakers in thoughtful decision-making concerning K-12 education in the state. The department is home to the Office for Research, Measurement and Evaluation, which has developed and administers data systems used by all Arkansas public school systems.

"This is a crucial time for education in Arkansas, and I am proud of the role our faculty has played in defining issues in school leadership and reform," Farley said. "There is still much to do, and I look forward to the challenges we face as a department in preparing the leaders of tomorrow for our schools and higher education institutions."

Farley’s research has focused on career development, skills training interventions, and mental health/rehabilitation counseling strategies. His professional contributions include scholarly publications, instructional packages, numerous audiovisual instructional aids, and book chapters. He has presented extensively at national, regional and state conferences, and has conducted more than 250 workshops and seminars nationally.

Farley replaces James Swartz, associate professor of educational technology, who had served as interim department head during 2002-2003.