Dawn McCormack

Dawn McCormack, PhD, serves as Dean of the Howard College of Arts and Sciences at Samford University since July 2023. Previously, she held dual roles as Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and College of Graduate Studies at Middle Tennessee State University.

Her scholarly work bridges Egyptology with interdisciplinary methodologies, focusing on:

• Ancient Egyptian Kingship (notably the 13th dynasty)
• Archaeological Excavations at Abydos, including royal tombs and mastabas
• Coptic Sites and Late Antique religious history
• Pedagogical Innovation in liberal arts education through programs like Reacting to the Past and study abroad initiatives

McCormack’s publications reflect her expertise in archaeological fieldwork and educational practices, with fieldwork spanning Palaeolithic and ancient Egyptian contexts. Recent trends in her research emphasize:

• Integration of experiential learning in higher education
• Cultural heritage preservation through museum engagement
• Interdisciplinary approaches combining history, anthropology, and pedagogy

She has received recognition for:

• Teaching Excellence
• Advising Achievements

McCormack’s academic credentials include a BA in Anthropology and a PhD in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations from the University of Pennsylvania. Her career demonstrates a commitment to advancing both historical scholarship and student-centered educational practices.