The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) today announced the launch of its new School of Education and Learning Sciences, a milestone that coincides with the university’s 175th anniversary celebration and reaffirms its founding mission of preparing educators for Washington, D.C. and beyond.
“The School of Education and Learning Sciences aligns squarely with our priority to drive economic and social impact across the District,” said UDC President Maurice D. Edington. “This moment represents our roots while advancing our responsibility as the city’s public university.”
Approved by the UDC Board of Trustees in November, the new school formalizes and strengthens UDC’s long-standing role in teacher preparation, a legacy that traces back to 1851 and the founding of the Miner Normal School.
“The University of the District of Columbia has long been a gateway to opportunity for Washingtonians, and we are proud that UDC is reaffirming its historic role in training our city’s educators,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “The launch of the School of Education and Learning Sciences will build on UDC’s legacy as a pipeline to public service while ensuring we have more homegrown talent stepping up to teach and lead our young people.”
The school launches under the leadership of Interim Dean Anika Spratley Burtin, a tenured associate professor at UDC who most recently served as acting associate dean of academic affairs in the College of Arts and Sciences.
“This opportunity is both deeply meaningful to me and a profound responsibility,” Burtin said. “As interim dean, my leadership will focus on building a strong foundation that honors this history while strengthening our role as a trusted partner to the community — preparing educators and leaders who work collaboratively with schools and communities.”
The School of Education and Learning Sciences will offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs aligned with the District’s workforce needs and UDC’s 2024–2029 strategic plan, Delivering on the Promise. A national search for a permanent dean will begin in early 2026.
Read the full story and learn more about the UDC’s new School of Education and Learning Sciences at
https://www.udc.edu/news/2026/01/from-1851... # # #
The University of the District of Columbia is the only public university in Washington, D.C., and the second-oldest HBCU in the United States, with roots dating back to 1851. UDC is home to more than 80 academic programs, including a nationally recognized law school, a research farm, a vibrant community college and a workforce development division.
Posted By: Reginald Culpepper
Wednesday, January 21st 2026 at 1:45PM
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