Jessica Gisclair has been appointed the next associate dean of global education within the Isabella Cannon Global Education Center (GEC), effective January 2026.
Jessica Gisclair has been appointed the next associate dean of global education within the Isabella Cannon Global Education Center (GEC), effective January 2026.
Gisclair brings more than three decades of academic experience in strategic communications, media law and ethics to this leadership role. A longtime member of the Elon faculty, she has served as interim assistant dean of the GEC since June 2025 and previously chaired the university’s largest department in the School of Communications from 2010 to 2019.
A 2020 Fulbright U.S. Scholar to China at Shanghai International Studies University, Gisclair’s research focuses on Mainland China as a global economic leader and on the country’s rapid technological advancement, particularly in artificial intelligence. She was granted a 2024 sabbatical to continue examining China’s emerging role as a global AI leader by 2030.
In addition to her international research, Gisclair has long been active in professional and civic engagement. She serves as a member of the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) site team, evaluating programs in journalism and mass communications across the country, and as a board member for the Sunshine Center of the North Carolina Open Government Coalition. At Elon, she also serves as faculty-in-residence for the International Living Learning Community in the Global Neighborhood. She has served as an Elon faculty in residence in Florence and London.
“Jessica has demonstrated exceptional leadership, insight and dedication to Elon’s mission of global education,” said Nick Gozik, dean of global education. “She brings a rare blend of academic depth, global perspective and collaborative spirit that will continue to strengthen our programs and support students and faculty in meaningful, innovative ways.”
Gisclair succeeds Mark Kurt, who was recently appointed associate dean of the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business.
“Jessica’s leadership shows sincere care for the growth and success of others,” said Nepocatych, co-chair of the search committee. “Her mentorship and example inspire all of us, and there is so much we can learn from her.”
Search Committee
Allegra Laing, Executive Director of Global Programming, Co-Chair
Svetlana Nepocatych, Professor of Exercise Science, Co-Chair
Sophie Adamson, Associate Professor of French
Stephen Braye, Professor of English
Vanessa Drew-Branch, Associate Professor of Human Service Studies
Ronice Johnson-Guy, Director of Study USA
Jen Guy Metcalf, Associate Professor of Dance
Anthony Rizzuto, Associate Professor of Chemistry
Barjinder Singh, Associate Professor of Management
Robin Straka, Senior Associate Registrar
Denise Teeters, Director of International Student Services