Galloway, N.J. — Stockton University has appointed David Fuentes as the school’s new dean of the School of Education, effective April 6.

Fuentes comes to Stockton with more than two decades of experience as a leader, scholar and academic leader. Most recently, he was the Associate Dean of the College of Education at William Paterson University in Wayne. He is also a professor of Teacher Education and has extensive experience preparing primary and secondary educators.

“I’m incredibly honored to join Stockton University. I’m energized to advance a vision of transformative education grounded in access, critical inquiry, intellectual rigor and social justice by preparing educators who teach, lead and work for greater equity,” Fuentes said.

Stockton Provost Michael Palladino said Fuentes has a history of supporting faculty development and contributing to institutional initiatives focused on equity and student success.

“He brings a strong commitment to inclusive excellence, community partnership and the development of educators who are ready to lead and serve in diverse learning environments,” Palladino said. “I look forward to the leadership and insight that he will bring to the School of Education.”

Fuentes said he was attracted to the position at Stockton because the university has a deep commitment to its students and a distinctive culture that’s rooted in the community.

“Stockton is driven by impact and emphasizes the commitment to prepare graduates to impact change in their communities and be prepared to serve,” he said. “I am also impressed with how the university demonstrates caring beyond the classroom and teaches the whole student with an emphasis on well-being.”

But at its core, Fuentes said Stockton believes in access to teacher education. He said he’s committed to expanding support for students’ academic well-being, strengthening partnerships with local schools and organizations and ensuring an inclusive environment where all voices are heard.

“Access to high-quality teacher preparation is central to the mission and vision of public education at Stockton University, and it’s an essential component of a thriving democracy,” he said. “It is never too early or too late to decide you want to become a teacher. If you want to be a teacher we have a pathway for you."

Fuentes is the author or co-author of numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters and books, including “Digital Learning in High-Needs Schools: A Critical Approach to Technology Access and Equity in PreK-12” (Routledge). He currently serves as Project Director for a U.S. Department of Education Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence grant. 

His professional service includes leadership roles with the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education and the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation. In 2024, he received the Mildred García Founders’ Award from the American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education for his leadership and service.  

Palladino said Interim Dean Kimberly Dickerson will return to the role of Assistant Dean of the School of Education.

“I extend my sincere thanks to Dr. Dickerson for her steady and thoughtful leadership during this important transitional period,” Palladino said. “Her dedication, commitment and enthusiasm for the school have been greatly appreciated, and her leadership has provided continuity and support for our faculty, staff and students.”

If you would like to meet the new dean, the School of Education is hosting a meet and greet titled "Empanadas for Education" from noon to 1:30 p.m. on April 30 in Room J-228.

— Story by Mark Melhorn, photos by Abbigail Erbacher