Dr. Kala Burrell-Craft Appointed Dean of the College of Education at Grambling State
GRAMBLING, La. – Dr. Kala Burrell-Craft has been appointed the Dean of the College of Education. A dedicated educator and scholar with over 18 years of experience, Dr. Burrell-Craft will begin her tenure in Summer 2025.
Her appointment follows the interim leadership of Dr. Obadiah Simmons, whose guidance and steadfast commitment have sustained the College through a pivotal period of transition. The University extends its sincere gratitude for his service and continued dedication to student success and academic excellence.
Dr. Burrell-Craft brings a rich background in education, having served as a K-12 teacher and administrator in both middle and high school settings. She holds advanced certifications in English and special education, and as a critical scholar-practitioner, she draws upon her classroom and leadership experience to prepare culturally and linguistically sustaining teachers and leaders equipped to meet the diverse needs of today’s students.
“Dr. Burrell-Craft’s forthcoming appointment as Dean of the College of Education honors the proud legacy of a college that has long been the cornerstone of educational excellence at Grambling State University,” said President Martin Lemelle, Jr. “She brings a deep understanding of pedagogy and a genuine connection to the people who make education meaningful. I am confident that under her leadership, the College will be both a steward of tradition and a catalyst for the future of education.”
A recognized scholar-activist, Dr. Burrell-Craft’s research centers on identity development, educational equity in urban and rural contexts, anti-racist teacher and leadership preparation, culturally responsive pedagogy, critical literacies, and social justice. Her work is deeply rooted in addressing the historical and ongoing inequities in U.S. schools. Through her scholarship, teaching, and service, she challenges systemic barriers and fosters environments of fairness, inclusion, and belonging.
She proudly joins a family lineage of Grambling State alumni that includes her grandfather, parents, and brother—making her return to campus especially meaningful.
“Stepping into this role is a full-circle moment—returning home to the first HBCU I ever knew and loved,” said Dr. Burrell-Craft. “Grambling State helped shape the legacy of my own family, and I am honored to continue that legacy through a commitment to excellence, care, community, and equity.”
“I am excited about the appointment of Dr. Kala Burrell-Craft as the new Dean of the College of Education,” said Dr. Connie Walton, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Dr. Burrell-Craft has a proven track record of fostering collaboration, promoting research, and prioritizing student success. With an extensive background in higher education leadership, K-12 administration, and faculty development, she will work closely with College of Education faculty, staff, and students—as well as across divisions—to transform the student experience. I am looking forward to the positive impact she will have on the academic program and meeting workforce demands in the state of Louisiana.”
As the former director of a fully grant-funded Teacher Residency Program, Dr. Burrell-Craft was honored with the 2022 American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) Best Practice Award in Support of Multicultural Education and Diversity. She has authored numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, brings a wealth of editorial experience, and has successfully secured millions of dollars in external grant funding.
She holds a bachelor’s degree from Bowie State University, a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix, and both an educational specialist (EdS) and doctoral degree (PhD) from Louisiana State University. She is a proud graduate of the 2022 Leadership and Mentoring Institute (LMI) and the recipient of the 2024 Early Career Award from the American Association of Blacks in Higher Education. She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., exemplifying a lifelong commitment to service and leadership.