Julie Washington Appointed Interim Dean at UC Irvine Education School

On April 3, 2025, Julie Washington was appointed as the interim dean of the School of Education at the University of California, Irvine. A seasoned leader, Washington previously served as associate dean for faculty development and diversity at UC Irvine, where she has been a faculty member since 2021. Her extensive experience includes roles as professor and chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Georgia State University and as a professor and chair at the Department of Communicative Disorders at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Washington’s passion for language is evident in her research and career trajectory. Describing herself as a “language nerd,” she developed an early interest in language during high school, where she excelled in oratory contests and enjoyed diagramming sentences. Her journey into education was further solidified after receiving voice therapy from a speech-language pathologist, which inspired her commitment to the field.

Research Focus and Global Impact

Washington’s current research centers on the intersection of language and literacy, particularly among children who learn various forms of American English within their communities. Recently, she delivered a keynote address at the Africa Dyslexia Conference in Accra, Ghana, an event co-sponsored by UC Irvine’s School of Education. Her presentation highlighted the global challenges related to dyslexia and literacy, aiming to enhance understanding of these issues in diverse linguistic contexts.

In her role as interim dean, Washington leads the Language Variation and Academic Success Lab and the California Learning Disabilities Research Innovation Hub, both of which focus on improving educational outcomes for children with language variations. These initiatives, funded by the National Institute of Health, aim to create assessments that accurately reflect the language competencies of African American children, addressing a critical gap in existing educational practices.

“By integrating language variation into our assessments, we are beginning to understand the true language competence of children from diverse backgrounds,” Washington shared.

Washington’s work is addressing significant disparities in educational assessments and outcomes. Traditional assessments often misrepresent the abilities of students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, particularly those from lower socioeconomic statuses. Her lab is developing new assessment models that take into account the unique linguistic backgrounds of these children, ensuring a more accurate representation of their skills.

Vision for the Future of Education

Looking ahead, Washington emphasizes the importance of adapting to the evolving landscape of education. She notes that the ongoing focus on literacy and the integration of technology, particularly AI, are crucial for improving educational practices. “The pandemic has highlighted the need for technology in education, and we must leverage these tools to enhance learning experiences,” she stated.

Washington’s vision for the School of Education involves maintaining its high standards amid funding uncertainties. She acknowledges the challenges faced by higher education institutions, particularly in securing research funding, yet remains optimistic about the potential for continued innovation and growth. “Before there was funding, there was science, and science will persist despite financial challenges,” she remarked.

As she embarks on this new leadership role, Washington is committed to fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes research-driven practices and embraces the integration of technology in education. Her leadership comes at a pivotal time when the future of education is under scrutiny, and her dedication to improving literacy outcomes and supporting diverse learners is poised to make a significant impact.

Washington’s journey from a passionate student to an influential educational leader exemplifies the power of language and the importance of equitable education for all children. Her work not only aims to enhance literacy but also seeks to empower educators and communities to better support their students.