College for Education and Engaged Learning Welcomes Dr. Huijian “David” Dong as Senior Assistant Dean for Educational and Community Engagement

In this newly created role, Dr. Dong will manage all internal and external centers within the college, collectively known as the CEEL Center Consortium (CCC).

The CCC is comprised of the ADP Center for Learning Technologies, Ben Samuels Children’s Center, Center for Education, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships, Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health, Center of Pedagogy/for Student Success and Educator Excellence, and Center for Research and Evaluation on Education and Human Services.

The CCC is a centralized hub and “one-stop shop” for Montclair and counties throughout New Jersey to access comprehensive services and resources, including—but not limited to—professional development for Montclair students and educators, clinical and family support services, and early care and education for children from birth through five years.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Dong to CEEL and look forward to collaborating with him as he takes the helm of the CEEL Center Consortium,” said Dean Vincent C. Alfonso.

He added, “We do not doubt that with his leadership experience and distinguished academic career, Dr. Dong will do great things to support the growth and success of our college’s centers.”

Dr. Dong has been a tenured Professor of Finance. He earned his Ph.D. in Financial Economics from the University of Delaware and is pursuing an Ed.D. in Adult Learning and Leadership at Teachers College, Columbia University.

Dr. Dong has held significant roles throughout his career. He served as Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Dickinson State University (DSU), Acting Dean of the School of Business at New Jersey City University (NJCU), and Chair at the University of South Florida.

As a scholar, Dr. Dong has contributed extensively to his field. His research has been published in esteemed journals, including the American Business Review and the Journal of Asset Management. He is the author of Data Analytics in Finance and four other textbooks. Over the past decades, he has taught and advised students across disciplines, including business, education, and mathematics, impacting undergraduate and graduate learners.

Dr. Dong has also been instrumental in institutional transformation. His leadership during the academic restructuring of DSU and NJCU garnered widespread acclaim. Reflecting on his contributions, DSU noted: “Dr. Dong’s leadership at DSU has set a benchmark for academic and institutional excellence. His focus on continuous improvement, innovation, and diversity has profoundly shaped the university’s trajectory. By prioritizing teaching and learning, Dr. Dong has left an indelible mark on DSU and the broader landscape of higher education.”

Dr. Dong said, “Montclair State University is a place I admire. The institution has great students, is empowered by great faculty, and is served by great staff. It is a privilege to have been chosen by Montclair. The search process was a role model for Gratitude, Hospitality, and Invitation.”

He also emphasized the importance of remaining close to his wife and sons and balancing family and professional life.

Dr. Dong’s passion for education, leadership, and innovation continues to shape his journey and contributions to the academic world.

Story by Social Media and Communications Coordinator Lauren Conforti