Faculty News Elementary Education

Belhaven Welcomes Dr. Clay Norton as Dean of Faculty for the School of Education

  • David Sprayberry
  • 16 May 2025

May 16, 2025 (Jackson, Miss.) – Dr. J. Clay Norton will join Belhaven University this fall as Dean of Faculty for the School of Education. A Belhaven alumnus and respected educator and leader in Mississippi's academic and athletic communities, Norton brings over two decades of experience in K–12 and higher education.

A 1994 graduate of Belhaven University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Norton has remained closely connected to the university, serving as an adjunct professor in the School of Education since 2017. His passion for Christian education, leadership development, and instructional excellence makes him an ideal fit to lead the School of Education's faculty into its next season of growth.

Norton holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Mississippi College, where his research focused on risk management in high school athletics. His diverse background includes service as a high school mathematics teacher, head basketball and golf coach, and athletic director.

"Clay's commitment to academic rigor, program growth, and servant leadership aligns perfectly with our mission," said Dr. Roger Parrott, President of Belhaven University. "We are excited to welcome him in this new capacity and confident he will be a transformative leader for our School of Education."

Dr. Audrey Kelleher, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, also shared, "Dr. Norton brings a unique blend of practical experience, scholarly insight, and spiritual maturity. His long-standing connection to Belhaven and his leadership in both the classroom and athletic arenas give him a deep understanding of how to prepare educators who lead with excellence and purpose."

Norton is a National Board-Certified Teacher, a recognized speaker at educational conferences, and the author of numerous articles on coaching, leadership, and education. He also maintains a leadership blog, The Book Chamber, where he reflects on professional growth and integrity in leadership.