William Carey University announces that Dr. Cassandra Conner has been named administrative dean of its Tradition campus, succeeding Jerry Bracey, who will retire in August.
A native of Gulfport, Conner has been academic dean of the Tradition campus since 2011, coordinating programs and assisting students with their academic needs or concerns. She is also an associate professor in the WCU School of Education, teaching courses in elementary education, literacy and educational leadership.
“Dr. Conner had a distinguished career in public schools on the Gulf Coast and is now committed to strengthening the programs at the Tradition campus of William Carey University. Her expertise in education and her familiarity with the Gulf Coast will serve her well,” said WCU President Dr. Tommy King.
Before joining WCU, Conner retired as an administrator in the Mississippi public school system, where she served as teacher, principal and, ultimately, director of curriculum and instruction and director of technology for the Harrison County School District.
“It has been exciting to watch the Tradition campus grow, both in terms of programs and infrastructure. We are working to expand our course offerings in all areas. Last year, we held ribbon-cuttings for two buildings in two months, Scianna Hall and Sanderson Hall, our new School of Pharmacy,” Conner said.
“I’m looking forward to being a part of the future growth planned for this campus. I consider myself blessed to be a part of the team at William Carey University, where we strive for excellence. I am confident that our graduates are destined to make a difference.”
Conner holds four education degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi – ranging from a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1973 to a doctorate in educational leadership and research in 1997.
The retiring administrative dean, Jerry Bracey, served in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years before joining William Carey University in 1992 as the assistant director of student marketing and admissions. He has been administrative dean of the Tradition campus since 1999.
“As we wish Dean Jerry Bracey many happy years in retirement, we reflect on the outstanding job he has done for William Carey University. His dedication following Hurricane Katrina, and to the building of the new campus at Tradition, give him great status in the history of Carey on the coast,” King said.
“In addition, his guiding of the pharmacy school in the early stages, and the construction of Sanderson Hall and Scianna Hall, give him a permanent place in the development of Carey on the coast.”