The College of Education mourns the loss of Dr. Joan Whipp, Associate Professor in the Department of Education Policy and Leadership (EDPL).

A tireless advocate for excellence in education, Dr. Whipp served as the Director of Teacher Education beginning in 2010, relentlessly working to improve aspiring teachers’ academic and clinical experiences and preparation. Joan also served as the Co-Chair of EDPL from 2000-2004, and was not only a pioneer in the use of online technologies, but  actively secured grants, especially those with a research focus on the formation of teachers.

Dr. Bill Henk, Dean of the College of Education, said, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Whipp. Over the years of her treasured time with us, she served in many different leadership roles, all with great distinction. Joan’s passion for the preparation of teachers and commitment to service were unparalleled, and her intellectual curiosity was keen. But more than being an outstanding colleague, Joan Whipp was truly a special human being, and we are all profoundly diminished by her untimely departure.”

Dr. Whipp received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Marquette University, Masters Degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and completed her Ph.D. in Urban Education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1996. She joined the College of Education as a tenure-track faculty member in 1998. She was an active scholar, skilled gardener, and fervent supporter of the arts community. Joan is survived by her husband, Tom, daughters Sonja and Emily, son Ryan and wife, Alex Zobacheva, and grandson, Jonathan. Dr. Joan Whipp will be sorely missed by the faculty, staff, and students of the College, along with the alumni and colleagues whose lives she touched over the years.

Details of the memorial and funeral service can be found online.