Dr. Gail D. Burd to Retire After 40 Years of Exceptional Service at the University of Arizona
Dr. Gail D. Burd, senior vice provost of academic affairs and teaching and learning and university distinguished professor, molecular and cellular biology, will be retiring in January 2025 after 40 years of exceptional service at the University of Arizona.
Dr. Burd has made significant contributions to the university, particularly in improving teaching and learning practices. She has systematically challenged and transformed pedagogical approaches across campus. This innovation to improve teaching and support instruction in the classroom, combined with support from university senior leadership, has helped establish our institution as one of the most innovative R1 universities in evidence-based teaching and collaborative learning.
Her key achievements include redesigning physical learning spaces, moving beyond traditional lecture halls to create collaborative environments that actively encourage interactive learning. The Chemistry and Commons Building project is the highlight of the collaborative learning spaces (CLS) initiative and a lasting tribute to Dr. Burd's impactful legacy. Today, the university has 61 of these collaborative spaces, accounting for nearly 24% of our centrally scheduled classrooms.
Dr. Burd established faculty learning communities that helped faculty understand that effective education is accomplished through cognitive engagement, discourse, and collaborative interaction. She spearheaded the establishment of the Center of University Education Scholarship (CUES), which supports innovative teaching and research on learning methods.
Beyond teaching transformation, Dr. Burd has been instrumental in numerous critical university initiatives. She led a large team of faculty, staff, administrators and students through the successful reaffirmation of accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission in 2021, earning a full ten-year period of accreditation, and another in 2023 to earn a full ten-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior Colleges and University Commission (WSCUC).
A dedicated mentor, Dr. Burd has been championing the professional development of women throughout her distinguished career. For decades, she has embodied leadership by creating pathways for emerging talent, consistently breaking down barriers and inspiring those around her. Her impact on institutional culture was formally recognized when she was honored with the prestigious Women of Impact Award in 2024.
We extend our congratulations and gratitude to Dr. Burd for her exceptional service. We are committed to preserving and advancing the educational innovations she has championed throughout her distinguished career. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will continue to inspire generations of educators and students at the University of Arizona.