Vanessa Sheared, dean of the Gladys L. Benerd School of Education, is stepping down from her role. Her last day is Friday, July 27.

Sheared has been instrumental in helping Benerd expand its portfolio of innovative graduate programs on the Sacramento Campus, including the recent launch of a master's concentration in educational entrepreneurship. During her tenure, Benerd obtained grants totaling more than $500,000 to redesign teacher credential programs in partnership with area school districts. Sheared represented Pacific on the boards of directors for United Way California Capital Region and Closing the Gap.

To provide continued leadership for the School of Education, Provost Maria Pallavicini has appointed Linda Webster, department chair and professor of Educational and School Psychology, to serve as interim dean.