Dr. Tricia Hunsader has been named interim vice president of academic affairs at Tusculum, announced Dr. James Hurley, president of Tusculum.
She will begin her new duties on June 1.
Dr. Hunsader currently serves as dean of the College of Education and professor of education. She will continue to serve in both capacities while a national search is being conducted.
Dr. Tricia Hunsader
“Dr. Hunsader has served Tusculum College with distinction, and I have complete confidence in her ability to lead the academy of the institution as we consider permanent leadership in this critical position,” said Dr. Hurley.
Dr. Hunsader joined Tusculum in 2016. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in finance, a Master of Arts in elementary education and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction with a cognate in elementary education and specialization in mathematics education.
In her new role, Dr. Hunsader will be responsible for facilitating academic affairs strategic planning goals and providing leadership as new academic programs are implemented.
“This is an exciting time in the history of Tusculum as we rise to university status and add programs in health sciences to serve the people of rural Appalachia,” said Dr. Hunsader. “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as interim vice president of academic affairs while we search for Tusculum’s next academic leader. The role will provide learning opportunities to shape my leadership as dean of the College of Education as we embark on Tusculum’s 225th year.”
Dr. Hunsader came to Tusculum from the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee where she served as coordinator of assessment for the College of Education, chair of the Quality Enhancement Plan Committee, president of the Faculty Senate and vice president of the USF System Faculty Council.
Prior to her academic career, she worked as an asset manager for a commercial real estate investment group, an elementary and high school mathematics teacher and controller and event coordinator for Hunsader Farms.
Dr. Hunsader has co-authored two books, “Mathematics: A Good Beginning, 7th ed.” (2013) and “Mathematical Literacy: Helping Students Make Meaning in the Middle Grades” (2008). She has published more than 20 articles and book chapters, has presented her research in mathematics assessment nationally and internationally and serves as a reviewer for national and international mathematics education journals.
She is married to Michael Hunsader, a fourth-generation farmer. They have five grown children and two grandsons.