SMU names Michael Harris dean of Simmons School of Education and Human Development

SMU has named Michael Harris the Leon Simmons Endowed Dean of the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development, effective immediately.

Harris, a nationally recognized scholar in university leadership, strategy and governance, has served as the school’s dean ad interim since June 2025, overseeing its five academic departments and six specialized centers and institutes.

“Michael brings the perspective of a respected scholar and the kind of leadership that allows a school like Simmons to thrive,” President Jay Hartzell said. “He understands how strong institutions are built through thoughtful governance, academic excellence and a culture that supports faculty and students. His leadership during this period of transition has reinforced the Simmons School’s foundation for continued impact while contributing to SMU’s broader academic ascent. We are excited about the future of Simmons under his leadership.”

As SMU continues its forward momentum, Simmons is well positioned to advance its research impact and expand its partnerships across Dallas and beyond. The school exemplifies the University’s commitment to research that matters and teaching that prepares students to lead in real-world settings. From educating teachers and counselors to advancing scholarship in sports leadership and the business of athletics, Simmons connects academic excellence with industry, community and opportunity in ways that reflect SMU’s institutional strengths.

“Michael understands what building on excellence looks like and how to execute,” Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel Davis Mersey said. “He knows what makes Simmons distinctive – its dedication to preparing educators and leaders who create meaningful change – and is well positioned to guide its future, reinforcing Simmons’ role as a local and national voice in education and human development.” 

Harris joined Simmons in 2012 as a professor of higher education in the Department of Education Policy and Leadership, where he also served as department chair from 2020 to 2024. His research examines the culture, strategy and behavior of higher education institutions, with a focus on academic leadership and governance. He has taught graduate courses in organizational theory, academic leadership, governance and the history of American higher education. He is currently completing a book on higher education leadership with Harvard Education Press.

“Those who have worked closely with Michael have great confidence in his leadership and in the future of the Simmons School under his direction,” said the Hon. Jeanne L. Phillips ’76, a member of the SMU Board of Trustees. “He is an excellent choice for this role. On behalf of the Simmons Executive Board, we look forward to supporting him as he builds on the school’s momentum and advances its mission in the years ahead.”

During the 2024-25 academic year, Harris was a fellow of the American Council on Education, where he studied leadership and institutional strategy at the University of Utah. At SMU, he has held additional leadership roles, including director of the Center for Teaching Excellence and faculty athletics representative, where he represents the University to the NCAA and Atlantic Coast Conference. He is a past president of the SMU Faculty Senate and served as faculty trustee during the 2023-24 academic year.

“The Simmons School is uniquely positioned to emerge as one of the most forward-thinking schools of education and human development in the country,” Harris said. “I’m honored to serve as dean and grow our school’s prestige through purposeful scholarship, strong partnerships, and a clear commitment to preparing leaders who create meaningful impact in their communities.”

Harris earned a B.A. in American history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree and doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Pennsylvania.