Mike McKinne, Ed.D.,
Dean of the School of Education
Member of Avila since 2009

Mike McKinne, Ed.D., joined Avila University’s family as the Dean of the School of Education in 2009. Coming to Avila after teaching education at Graceland University for seven years, McKinne is no stranger to higher education that is grounded in strong moral values.

“Avila was a good fit for me because of my commitment to service, student success and faculty empowerment,” McKinne said. “As Dean of the School of Education, I'm excited to be working with stellar faculty, staff and students.”

McKinne, of Lee’s Summit, said he chose to pursue the field of higher education because he wants to make a difference in others’ lives. He said that leadership, learning and taking action have carried him throughout his career.

“I want my students to walk away from class with a sense of empowerment, confidence and a love for learning,” McKinne said.

Building on his own empowerment, McKinne recently attended a seminar hosted by Tony Robbins, a motivational speaker who has served as an advisor to presidents, political leaders, advocates for humanity, CEOs of multinational corporations, psychologists, peak performance athletes, world-class entertainers, teachers and parents. As part of the seminar, McKinne participated in a fire walk, walking over 15 feet of burning coals.

“Fire walking is a metaphor: the mindset, if I can walk on fire without burning my feet, then I can do anything,” McKinne said. “It was a transformative experience. I believe that I can and will achieve success by applying myself and working with others. I frame it this way: seven years ago I was teaching 5th grade. Since then, I've completed a Doctorate from Mizzou and become a Dean before the age of 40.”

When he’s not in the classroom or walking over fire, McKinne enjoys reading and collecting books. He also stays busy with his wife Christi and two daughters, Macy Magaret and Marli Cate. AU