Alan Hughes is Professor of Psychology and Dean of the Charter School of Education and Human Sciences (CSEHS) at Berry College. He is affiliated with the Department of Psychological Science and is based in Cook Building 209. His leadership spans multiple accredited programs in Psychology, Teacher Education, Nursing, Exercise Science, Sport Leadership, and graduate programs including Physician Associate Studies and Educational Leadership. The school also houses laboratory schools serving PreK through 8th grade and an Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE) program. Education: Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology, University of Louisville (2000) M.A. in Experimental Psychology, Western Kentucky University (1996) B.A. in Psychology, Berea College (1994) Dr. Hughes's research focuses on visual neuroscience , particularly the retinal basis of color vision, visual electrophysiology, parallel visual pathways, and mechanisms of light adaptation. He also contributes significantly to the scholarship of teaching , developing innovative pedagogical tools and demonstrations to enhance student engagement in psychology courses, especially in sensory and behavioral neuroscience, statistics, and research methods. His recent publications reflect a dual focus: foundational vision science and educational innovation. Early work centers on electroretinography and color adaptation dynamics, while later publications emphasize mobile learning applications and active learning strategies in psychology education. This evolution highlights a career committed to both scientific inquiry and pedagogical excellence. Professional Service and Institutional Leadership: Dean, Charter School of Education and Human Sciences (2020–Present) Chair, Department of Psychology (2016–2020) Co-Director, Institutional Effectiveness Initiative (2020–2022) SACSCOC Institutional Accreditation Liaison (Current) Dr. Hughes actively collaborates with students on research and promotes undergraduate involvement in scientific inquiry. He is a member of several professional associations, including the Society for the Teaching of Psychology (APA Division 2), Association for Psychological Science (APS), and Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO). He has not received any scientific awards mentioned in the text, but his sustained scholarly output and leadership roles reflect significant professional recognition. The Charter School of Education and Human Sciences under his leadership supports three accredited laboratory schools: two early childhood centers and a K–8 school, which serve as vital training grounds for education students and contribute to community outreach.
