Rory Tannebaum, PhD, has joined Augusta University’s College of Education and Human Development as the new chair of the Department of Teaching and Leading, bringing 15 years of academic experience and a vision for connection, research and student engagement. 

“I’m excited to be here. It’s a good place to be,” Tannebaum said. “I’ve met some wonderful people, and I genuinely have felt remarkably supported.” 

A native of Marietta, Georgia, Tannebaum earned both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in teaching from the University of Georgia. He began his career in the classroom before pursuing a doctorate in curriculum and instruction with a focus on social studies education. Prior to joining Augusta University, he spent nearly a decade at Merrimack College in Massachusetts, serving as assistant professor, associate professor and eventually chair of the Department of Education. 

His motivation for leadership stems from a genuine desire to connect and support others. 

“One of the main reasons I got into teaching was because I like getting to know people. I like to help them, and I enjoy being part of an immersive experience where you’re working toward something good,” he explained. “Being a chair allows you to do that in many of the same ways teaching does. I get to work with a lot of people, some who are brand new and some who’ve been doing this for years, but everyone needs support along the way.” 

“My favorite thing in education is interacting with students, especially in less formal settings. Whether it’s attending campus events or supporting them at their games, I love getting involved.”

Rory Tannebaum, PhD, chair of the Department of Teaching and Leading in the College of Education and Human Development

Tannebaum plans to use his new role to increase visibility and connection among faculty members, especially in how their research is shared and celebrated. 

“Promoting a level of visibility for everyone matters, even if it’s just sending an email to a couple of people who don’t usually interact,” he said. “As department chair, I see your research. I see your hard work. I want to connect people so they know who’s in their department and who might be able to mentor them. It’s about connecting people and ideas. A collaborative culture only exists if everyone is engaging with one another, and I think my job as chair is to help make that happen,” he added

Supporting students, both inside and outside the classroom, is another priority for Tannebaum. 

“My favorite thing in education is interacting with students, especially in less formal settings,” he said. “Whether it’s attending campus events or supporting them at their games, I love getting involved. Students are the backbone of the institution, and I want them to feel like they’re part of a community here.” 

That same focus extends to online learners, a group Tannebaum believes deserves more intentional engagement. 

“Historically, students taking online or asynchronous classes are excellent students, but they often don’t feel as connected to campus,” he said. “I want to find ways to give them more opportunities to engage beyond just emails and modules. It’s about helping them understand that AU, and the Department of Teaching and Leading, truly values their experience and wants them to benefit from the full scope of our programs.” 

When it comes to advancing research, Tannebaum takes a personalized approach based on each faculty member’s career stage. 

“If we have first-year PhD students, doctoral completers or new assistant professors, my job is to ensure they feel supported,” he said. “That support can come in the form of financial assistance, time to focus on research or just guidance on how to navigate the academic world.” 

For tenured faculty, his focus shifts toward helping them maintain their momentum and pursue new opportunities. 

“My goal is to help them grow their research impact in ways that benefit them, their work and the university,” he said. “It’s about making sure they still have the time and freedom to do the work they’re passionate about.”

Judi Wilson, EdD, dean of the College of Education and Human Development, expressed her enthusiasm for Tannebaum’s leadership.

“Dr. Tannebaum brings both experience and a collaborative spirit that aligns beautifully with our college’s mission,” she said. “His student-centered approach, commitment to faculty development and vision for strengthening research and partnerships make him a tremendous asset to the Department of Teaching and Leading.” 

Tannebaum said he’s eager to continue learning, collaborating and supporting the department in meaningful ways. 

“This department is full of passionate educators and scholars, and I’m here to support them, connect them and help us grow together,” he said. “It’s a great place to be, and I’m truly glad to be part of it.”