Friction is growing within one of Michigan State University’s most touted colleges as faculty are split on the dean’s leadership style. 

Late last month, the College of Education's Faculty Advisory Committee adopted a no-confidence resolution against Dean Jerlando Jackson, who has led the college since July 2022.  

Some faculty members said they feel Jackson has not properly supported them through sweeping universitywide budget cuts and have additional concerns about his lack of presence in the college. 

Other faculty members have questioned the timing of the vote and the vote-holding process. They have also attributed Jackson’s unpopularity to a difference in leadership styles.

It's a pivotal year for the dean as the provost’s office conducts Jackson's five-year review, according to documents obtained by The State News. 

The State News spoke to employees within the College of Education on the condition of anonymity.  

The vote 

The committee sent out the no-confidence vote on Sept. 18, in which eligible faculty were asked to vote on the dean of the college by Sept. 23, according to documents obtained by The State News. 

The resolution says the call for the vote is “based on concerns regarding leadership, accountability, engagement in consequential decision-making and the absence of a clearly articulated vision and priorities to guide the College.” 

A vote of no confidence was adopted for Jackson, with 62% of the vote. 20% voted not to adopt the resolution and 18% abstained.