Christopher Lucas, Ph.D.

Christopher Lucas, Ph.D., 1958 – Dr. Lucas is currently a Professor in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas. The focus of his long, exemplary academic career has been teacher preparation and in-service teacher development, an interest that was inspired by his dedicated teachers at Williamsville High School over a half-century ago. In high school, Chris was active in the Art, French and Drama clubs, worked on the school newspaper staff, and was a member of the school’s “Citizen Council”. He was a talented student artist and today, art remains one of his most ardent hobbies.

After graduating from high school, Chris attended Syracuse University earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology. He earned a master’s degree in English and Education at Northwestern University, and a doctorate in Philosophy/Education at Ohio State University. In 1967, Dr. Lucas joined the faculty of the College of Education at the University of Missouri-Columbia where he remained until 1991. In addition to his teaching, he served as the Director of the Center for International Studies and Programs and remains a steadfast proponent of student study abroad programs.

In the early nineties, he spent two years as Department Chair of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies at Kent State University. In 1993, he became Head of the Department of Educational Leadership, Counseling & Foundations in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas, a position he held for eight years. In addition to his roles as an educator and administrator, Professor Lucas is a prolific writer and researcher, authoring 12 books and nearly 150 journal articles, essays, and research reports. He is also a world traveler and has published papers on education in China and the Middle East.