Dr. Margie Yates, assistant professor of education, has been named the new chair of the education department at LaGrange College, taking over from Dr. Don Livingston, who is returning to the classroom after leading the department for five years.

“I have decided to step down to devote more of my energies to teaching and scholarship,” Livingston said. “I have been asked to contribute to a new book and have several research projects on the back burner; one of which will require some fieldwork. When I considered embarking on an ambitious research agenda along with handling the duties of a large department, I concluded that I had to choose one or the other. Fortunately, Dr. Margie Yates has agreed to take the helm going forward.”

Dr. Greg McClanahan, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, praised Livingston’s contributions to the department.

“Much of the growth of the graduate Education programs – in enrollment, breadth and quality – can be attributed to Don's capable leadership,” he said. “In addition, Don successfully guided the department through the reaccreditation process with the Professional Standards Commission last year, and has represented the College well to the local school district and community.”

Yates has been at LaGrange College since 2005. She has a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Georgia, a master’s degree in early childhood education from Columbus College and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Auburn University.

She has served as president of the Georgia Educational Research Association and is an active board examiner with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. At the College, she is chair of the Academic Policies Committee.

Yates said she feels honored to be selected.

“The Education Department has a history rich in preparing highly qualified teachers in a caring and supportive environment,” she said. “I am excited about working with our outstanding and talented faculty as we continue this legacy and build upon it. One of my greatest pleasures is working with our schools and the community, and I look forward to partnering closely with them to help strengthen our educational system.”