Velma E. Schmidt Endowed Chair for Early Childhood Education

Dr. Velma E. Schmidt exemplified the spirit of excellence, service, and innovation that defines the University of North Texas. Over a distinguished 50-year career in education, Dr. Schmidt shaped generations of students and educators while advancing the field of early childhood education at UNT and beyond.

Joining the University of North Texas in 1970 as an associate professor of education and director of early childhood education, Dr. Schmidt was promoted to full professor in 1975. She went on to serve as coordinator of graduate affairs for the College of Education, providing visionary leadership during a period of meaningful growth. Her impact was recognized with numerous honors, including UNT’s Outstanding Educator Award and the Distinguished Faculty Award from the Federation of North Texas Area Universities.

Established in her honor, The Velma E. Schmidt Chair in Early Childhood Education advances UNT’s mission to prepare leaders, innovators, and advocates in education. The Chair supports a full professor–level faculty position in the College of Education, ensuring sustained excellence in teaching, research, and service. Annual distributions from the endowment enhance faculty support and advance high-impact research, student engagement, and scholarly activity that strengthen early childhood education locally and globally.

The appointment of the Chair holder follows UNT’s standard faculty selection process and reflects the College of Education’s commitment to academic distinction, collaboration, and student success.

Endowment Chair

Dr. Michelle Salazar Pérez (2022 - present)

The position has been previously been held by Dr. George Morrison (1995-2005) and Dr. Gaile S. Cannella (2009-2013).

Donor Recognition

The Velma E. Schmidt Chair in Early Childhood Education is made possible through the generosity and vision of donors committed to advancing educational excellence at the University of North Texas.