Alcorn State University has appointed Dr. Tracey Gregory as dean of the School of Education & Psychology.
Gregory, a Jackson, Miss. native, joins Alcorn after serving as associate professor of graduate education and director of Ed.D. doctoral studies at Belhaven University.
Her career spans every major level of public schools from second grade teacher to elementary and high school administrator.
“I was drawn to Alcorn State University because of its legacy of preparing educators and leaders who make a meaningful impact in their communities,” Gregory said. “This role allows me to bring together my K–12 and higher education experiences to strengthen programs, support faculty, and positively influence students.”
As dean, Gregory oversees academic programs in education, health and physical education and recreation, and psychology.
Her immediate priorities include strategic faculty hiring, increasing enrollment across undergraduate and graduate programs, and improving student pass rates on licensure examinations.
She has also set her sights on launching graduate level psychology programs and an Ed.D. doctoral program.
“I have been intentional about listening, learning, and taking strategic action,” Gregory said. “Most importantly, I’ve felt a genuine sense of connection and purpose in this role. Alcorn truly feels like home.”
Gregory said her years in K–12 schools inform every decision she makes about curriculum and faculty development.
She expects Alcorn graduates to enter the workforce ready to manage classrooms, use data to guide instruction and demonstrate the professional conduct that sustains careers. These are what she calls the soft skills that travel across all professions.
“Treat students like they have your last name,” Gregory said, crediting advice from her mother as the foundation of her professional philosophy. “When we approach our work with that mindset, there is nothing we wouldn’t do to ensure students are supported and successful.”
Gregory said expanding graduate offerings will deepen the school’s contribution to Alcorn’s broader mission of community leadership. She envisions a school where working professionals can return for advanced degrees, micro-credentials and endorsements long after earning their first diploma.
Gregory earned a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Jackson State University and a Master of Education in elementary education from Belhaven University. She also holds an educational specialist degree in school administration and supervision and a Doctor of Education in educational leadership, both from Delta State University.
