Dr. Herb F. Brown III
Office address
204 D
College of Education Building
Dr. Herb Brown, who joined the Reich College of Education faculty in 2007, serves as interim dean of the college. In this role, he provides strategic leadership for academic programs, faculty and staff, student success initiatives, research and innovation, and partnerships that advance educator preparation, counseling, leadership development, and workforce readiness across North Carolina and beyond.
Prior to his appointment as interim dean, Dr. Brown served as interim associate dean for academic affairs and operations and chair of the Department of Media, Career Studies, and Leadership Development. Throughout his administrative leadership, he has guided academic planning, supported program innovation, led accreditation and assessment initiatives, strengthened enrollment and workforce-focused programming, and fostered collaborative partnerships across the university and with external stakeholders.
Dr. Brown brings more than three decades of experience in higher education, including leadership, faculty, and administrative appointments at Appalachian State University, the University of South Carolina, the University of Virginia's College at Wise, James Madison University, and Virginia Tech. His career has focused on advancing innovative academic programs, expanding access through online and flexible learning, strengthening workforce and leadership development, and preparing graduates to meet the evolving needs of schools, organizations, and communities.
He earned a Ph.D. in Career and Technical Education from Virginia Tech, with cognates in Computer Information Systems and Educational Media and Instructional Technology. An active scholar, Dr. Brown has authored books and instructional materials, contributed chapters to national reference works, and published and presented extensively on educational leadership, technology, workforce development, curriculum innovation, and teaching and learning. His scholarship has been recognized through numerous national and international presentations and funded projects.
Beyond his academic leadership, Dr. Brown has served in numerous university, state, and national leadership roles supporting curriculum development, educator preparation, professional standards, faculty development, and strategic initiatives that strengthen education and workforce systems.
In 2026, Dr. Brown received the Reich College of Education Outstanding Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional service, collaborative leadership, and commitment to advancing the college's mission while supporting students, faculty, staff, and community partners.