CUE February 2026 Newsletter

Welcome To Our New Dean!

Congratulations to Heather Pendleton-Helm, PhD!

Dr. Rosanne Fulton, the director of the UNC Center for Urban Education, joins her colleagues in welcoming the newly appointed Dean of UNC’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. As a longtime faculty leader, Pendleton-Helm brings more than two decades of experience to the role. She is a professor, licensed professional counselor, and registered play therapist and has served in many roles at UNC since 2004, including interim dean.

Heather Pendleton-Helm, newly appointed Dean of UNC’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences

Pendleton-Helm has been a champion for the faculty and the staff at UNC and creates initiatives that enhance retention, engagement and well-being. During her tenure at UNC, Pendleton-Helm has also been honored with several awards in recognition of her commitment to teaching excellence.

Pendleton-Helm, who has deep roots at UNC, said, “I am deeply proud of the legacy we have built together,” she said, “one rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service.”

“I’m excited to support Heather in her new role,” said Fulton. “The new Dean supports rigorous academic standards and actively advances practices that support the university’s designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution. These values are aligned with our Center’s values.”

About the Center for Urban Education, the new dean said, “I am glad to support their ongoing good work. Their efforts to support a diverse group of teacher candidates within an apprenticeship pathway is remarkable.”