Ball named assistant vice president of academic affairs

Heather Ball, associate professor of special education, has been named assistant vice president of academic affairs (AVPAA) at the University of Maine at Machias, effective July 15.

Ball has been a member of the UMM community since 2002. She has served as special education program coordinator since 2005, and recently chaired the university’s professional studies division.

As AVPAA, she will work closely with vice president of academic affairs and head of campus Dan Qualls to oversee academic support services for UMM students, contribute to the development of educational programs and partnerships, and collaborate with the University of Maine Provost’s Council and Dean’s Council.

“I’m excited for the opportunities and constructive conversations that lie ahead as we develop a stronger partnership with the University of Maine, and as we collaborate with other campuses in the University of Maine System,” she says. “While we face challenging days ahead, I look forward to supporting UMM faculty and students as we develop our expertise in various modalities of teaching and learning.”

Ball received a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Maine in 2011, where her research and dissertation focused on cultural diversity and teacher training.

As special education program coordinator, she has collaborated with state and local educational agencies and leaders to maximize access to coursework and training for those seeking to become a special education teacher, with a focus on increasing opportunities for nontraditional learners in rural communities.

In addition to her role as AVPAA, Ball will continue to teach distance learning courses in UMM’s education program.