Dr. Don Raleigh departs Liberty University for new leadership role

Liberty University congratulates School of Education Dean Dr. Don Raleigh, who has been named successor of Dr. Larry Rice as the 15th president of Rogers State University (RSU) in Claremore, Okla., pending final approval by the Board of Regents in June.

Dr. Raleigh has served as dean of the School of Education since 2023, leading several key initiatives aimed at strengthening Liberty’s education programming. Under his leadership, the School of Education opened its first simulation classroom last fall, which allows students to gain hands-on experience running learning centers, reading groups, and classroom activities before entering the field for their practicums and student teaching. He has been working to expand programming partnerships with Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) to provide more education opportunities for our region in the wake of ongoing teacher shortages in Virginia.

Previously, Dr. Raleigh served for two years as senior associate dean for academic operations at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he worked with students on strengthening the culture of osteopathic learning and aligning curriculum and operations to prepare student-physicians for their future mission of healing from a holistic approach.

“Dr. Don Raleigh has served Liberty University with excellence, distinction, and a deep commitment to Christian education. He has left a lasting impact at the School of Education,” said Liberty Provost and Chief Academic Officer Scott Hicks. “Through great care and innovation, he helped improve students’ lives in pursuing educational careers. We are grateful for his service and celebrate this exciting new chapter in his calling. He will always be a part of the Liberty family.”

Raleigh started his career as an educator in 1988 and has served in almost every role as a teacher, coach, and administrator in public schools. Prior to Liberty, he served as superintendent of Pryor Public Schools in Pryor, Okla., for 13 years.

Dr. Shawn Bielicki, associate dean of the College of Applied Studies and Academic Success, will serve as interim for the School of Education during the search for a new dean. Prior to his time at Liberty, Dr. Bielicki spent nearly 15 years in K-12 settings as a middle and high school teacher, assistant principal, and curriculum coordinator. He was selected as Teacher of the Year four times and Administrator of the Year twice. His passion for teaching and learning and his commitment to Christ is evident in all he does.