Rosemarie Allen, Ed.D., will be the next dean of the School of Education at Metropolitan State University of Denver. A University search committee selected her to succeed the school’s founding dean, Elizabeth Hinde, Ph.D., who is retiring in August after 40 years in education. In announcing the appointment, the search committee praised Allen’s leadership, experience in education and commitment to student success.
Allen, a professor of Early Childhood Education, began teaching at MSU Denver in 2004. She is scheduled to assume her new role as dean July 1, which will provide an opportunity to work alongside Hinde, who has served as dean since 2014. Provost Matt Makley, Ph.D., said Allen will carry on Hinde’s legacy as a strong leader who advocates for practical, forward-thinking solutions to the state’s most pressing educational challenges. Allen has been nationally recognized for her work to ensure access to high-quality early-childhood programs that are developmentally and culturally aware. She has dedicated her career to improving educational outcomes for all learners, especially those from historically underserved communities, Makley said.
“Dr. Allen’s work reflects a profound understanding of the structures that shape educational opportunity,” he said. “She is both a strategic thinker and an action-oriented leader, capable of translating bold vision into impactful, sustainable practice.”
Makley also touted Allen’s years of experience working at the intersection of policy, practice and community. Allen has extensive experience in K–12 education and demonstrated ability to lead within state systems, engage institutional partners and advance meaningful change across diverse educational settings.
“Dr. Allen’s energy, clarity of purpose and commitment to excellence position her to be a transformative leader — one who will elevate the school’s impact, expand its reach and ensure that MSU Denver continues to prepare educators who are responsive, resilient and ready to meet the needs of Colorado’s diverse communities,” Makely said.
Allen’s research focuses on addressing the disproportionate rates at which children of color are expelled and suspended from early-childhood programs and advancing culturally responsive teaching practices. Named a Global Leader for Early Childhood in 2009, she represents the United States at international World Forums biannually, sharing expertise and learning from peers worldwide.
Hinde said she is thrilled with Allen’s appointment and that the School of Education is in great hands with her at the helm.
“While the faculty and staff of the School of Ed have accomplished so many incredible things in the past 12 years, including with Dr. Allen as a valued faculty member, even greater accomplishments and stronger impact are ahead,” Hinde said.
Allen received her undergraduate degree from California State University, Long Beach; a master’s in Education from Lesley University and a doctorate in Equity and Leadership in Education from the University of Colorado Denver.
