Dr. Collier received a B.S. degree in Agriculture from the University of Tennessee (1969), an M.A. (1973) in special education and Ed. S. (1980) in Supervision and Instruction from Tennessee Technological University, and an Ed. D. from Peabody College of Vanderbilt University (1983). During his 30-year career in K-12 education, Dr. Collier served as a special education supervisor and teacher, as well as principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. During implementation of the Tennessee Better Schools Program, he assisted in the development of the special education teacher evaluation system, Tennessee special education teacher licensure standards, and served as the Director of Administration for the Tennessee Academy for School Leaders. Before coming to Cumberland University, Dr. Collier worked in the mental health field as a teacher in an alternative school setting and a counselor for at-risk youth and clients recently released from prison. Prior to his studies and career in education, Dean Collier served as an infantry and intelligence officer in the United States Army with a combat tour as a military advisor in Vietnam. For his service in Vietnam, 1Lt. Collier was awarded the Bronze Star.

 

Dean Collier’s interests and studies include the effects of school climate and the role it plays in student learning, as well as programming at schools established specifically for students with behavior problems. He has presented on these topics at the national, state, and regional levels.

 

Dr. Collier serves as faculty advisor for the Cumberland University Chapter of the Student Tennessee Education Association. He also serves on the university’s Graduate Council and the Executive Management Team. Dean Collier is a member of the Wilson County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee and is a board member for the Tennessee Association of Middle Schools and the Tennessee Staff Development Council. His work with area school districts includes serving on committees for the Tennessee School Improvement Plan and as an evaluation team member for accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

 

Dean Collier and his wife, Bonnie, have three children and one grandchild. Their family enjoys traveling, boating, and fishing. He and his sons have fished in several countries, including Belize, Ireland, and Vietnam.