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College of Education and Professional Studies (CoEPS) Launches New Academic Year with Focus on Student Success, Excellence and Impact

The Fort Valley State University College of Education and Professional Studies (CoEPS) welcomed faculty and staff into the 2026-2027 academic year with an innovative, theatre-themed opening meeting that celebrated the collective work of educators, advisors, scholars and service leaders committed to student success.

Held at the Pettigrew Center, the meeting, themed "A Shining S.T.A.R.S. Production transformed the traditional opening session into an engaging experience designed to reinforce the importance of creativity, collaboration, and student-centered learning.

Co-hosted by Mrs. Chantel Hendricks, Administrative Assistant/Marketing Recruitment Specialist and Otha Everett, Ed.D., Assistant Professor, Rehabilitation Counseling, the event highlighted the critical role faculty and staff play in shaping student achievement through teaching, advising, recruitment, scholarship and service.

Beth Day-Hairston, Ph.D., dean, College of Education and Professional Studies challenged attendees to embrace the college's S.T.A.R.S.framework, which represents Student Success, Teaching Excellence, Advising and Mentorship, Recruitment and Relationships, and Service and Scholarship.

"Every day, you step onto a different stage," Day-Hairston said. "Your classroom becomes a theatre of possibility. Your office becomes a place of mentorship. Your scholarship advances knowledge. Your service strengthens our institution and community, and your recruitment efforts open doors for future generations."

Drawing inspiration from the collaborative spirit of the arts, Day-Hairston emphasized that the work of CoEPS extends beyond individual responsibilities and contributes directly to the success of students and the broader university community.

The meeting included updates on the state of the college, discussions on marketing and communications, presented by Britney Smith, executive director, University Marketing and Communications,  student success initiatives, REP4, presented by Haneefat Adanijo’26, community engagement opportunities, professional development activities and teaching strategies designed to enhance learning outcomes.

A highlighted moment of the program was the presentation of the inaugural CoEPS A.L.L.I.E.S. Award to Dr. Bridget Moss, honoring her actions that promote advocacy, leadership, being a light in the valley, and actions that exemplify inclusivity,  empathy, and a commitment to fostering a sense of belonging for others.

As faculty and staff prepared for the start of the semester, Day-Hairston encouraged them to remain focused on building meaningful relationships and creating transformative educational experiences for students.

"Stars shine individually, but constellations create impact together," Day-Hairston said. "The success of CoEPS depends not on any one person, but on all of us working collectively to support students and one another."

The opening meeting concluded with departmental planning sessions that positioned faculty and staff to begin the year with a shared vision, renewed energy and a commitment to advancing student success across the College of Education and Professional Studies. Beyond the celebration, the CoEPS took  a deep dive around Strategic Priority 4: Engagement and Collaboration, to map out how the CoEPS will create college-wide signature service projects.

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