Biography
Currently Dr. Pedersen is the Dean of the College of Education at the University of South Carolina. Dean Pedersen provides leadership and sustained growth in scholarship, teaching, outreach and the development of innovative programs to support faculty, staff and students in the college. He is motivated by seeking opportunities to stimulate those who are inspired by a passion to serve children, youth, families, schools and communities and has developed and provided leadership for innovative programs for faculty, staff, and students in PK-20 education settings. He maintains a focus on communication, participation, and developing collaborations and coalitions in order to achieve college goals including the development of faculty skills; building participation and involvement in the leadership process; and, supporting the empowerment of individuals. Dr. Pedersen is currently active in multiple national/international organizations, and has held many leadership roles including president of the Association for Science Teacher Education (ASTE). Over the course of his professional career he has well over 100 publications including 16 books.