Getting to Know Dean Schneider

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education?

A: Education has always been part of who I am. Both of my parents were educators—my mom taught fifth grade, and my dad taught high school geography while coaching football and golf. I spent much of my childhood at my dad’s school, where I experienced firsthand the sense of community that great schools create. I also remember how former students would stop to greet my parents everywhere we went. It was obvious that they had made a lasting difference in people’s lives, and that left an impression on me.

I found my own path into education. I began my career as a first-grade teacher and later became one of the first computer teachers—a role that, at the time, meant showing students how to insert floppy disks and introducing them to programs like The Oregon Trail and Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego? It was an exciting glimpse into how technology could transform learning.

My Bachelor’s degree is in elementary education from USF, and I felt exceptionally well prepared to enter the classroom. But teaching also made me curious. I wanted to better understand my own practice, how children learn, and how technology could enhance literacy and learning. That curiosity led me to pursue advanced degrees, become a researcher, and ultimately dedicate my career to improving education for learners and educators alike.

Q: As dean, what are your priorities for the USF College of Education, and how do you hope the college continues to shape the future of education?

A: My priority is to position the College of Education to be the nation’s leading college of education, redefining how research, technology, and partnerships expand human potential and transform learning across the lifespan. We prepare a broad range of educators from early childhood to higher education and from exercise science & kinesiology to learning design. We are collectively focused on advancing research that solves real problems, embracing technologies like AI thoughtfully and ethically, and building strong partnerships with schools and communities. Ultimately, I want our graduates to leave USF not only exceptionally prepared for their careers but equipped to improve the lives of others.

Q: If you could share one message with our alumni, what would it be?

A: As one of the four founding colleges of USF, we have the strongest, most faithful alumni. Every classroom you lead, every
organization you serve, and every student or community member you influence reflects the values of this college. As a two time alumna (BS and MA), I know that we have had many years where you haven’t heard from the College of Education, but we are here and we would love to reconnect with you! We are looking forward to welcoming our alumni back to campus on gameday for the opening of our new stadium and we want you to join us for the community events we have planned—5K, Distinguished Awards Ceremony, Education in Action Annual Celebration. Stay connected, share your expertise, and help us continue shaping the
future together. Your success is our greatest source of pride.

Personal

Q: When you’re not on campus, how do you like to spend your free time?

A:  I love being with my family. I enjoy traveling, going to the beach, and attending sporting events and concerts.

Q: We hear you’re a big sports fan. Which team do you cheer for and what’s your favorite game-day tradition?

A: I am a big fan of all the Tampa Bay teams—the Lightning, Bucs, Rays, Rowdies, Sun, and, of course, the USF Bulls! The best game day tradition hasn’t happened yet… tailgating on campus with College of Education alumni and then heading to the new stadiumi!

Q: What’s your favorite USF tradition?

A: Rocky as an OG tradition and Herd of Thunder as a more recent one.

Q What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

A: They might be surprised by the number and kind of concerts I go to- from heavy metal to classical music and everything in
between.