Yvette E. Pearson

Yvette E. Pearson serves as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs & Strategic Initiatives at the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and Associate Dean for Effectiveness & Accountability at the Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, both at the University of Texas at Dallas. She holds an Associate Professor (with Tenure) position in the Department of Science and Mathematics Education. Her professional preparation includes a Ph.D. in Engineering and Applied Science from the University of New Orleans, a M.S. in Chemistry and B.S. in Civil Engineering from Southern University and A&M College, and a Graduate Certificate in Educational Research Methodology from University of Illinois Chicago.

Her research focuses on access to STEM education, sustainable communities, and academic-workforce partnerships. Recent work addresses DEI in STEM education, faculty hiring practices, and equitable academic policies. Her 2025 publications emphasize ESG principles and inclusive hiring, while her 2024 studies explore racial disparities in STEM and organizational collaboration frameworks.

• Key awards include the UT System Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, ABET’s Claire Felbinger Award, and Fellowships from both the American Society for Engineering Education and American Society of Civil Engineers.

Dr. Pearson oversees major NSF grants totaling $1.5M+ supporting transfer student success and workforce development initiatives. Her leadership spans roles at Rice University and the National Science Foundation, with a focus on accreditation, diversity initiatives, and educational equity.

• Recent presentations include sessions on team-building, tenure reform, and disability inclusion in STEM at conferences like ASEE and AAAS.