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Dr. Edward Abeyta
Edward Abeyta serves as the Associate Dean for Education and Community Outreach. He specializes in learning across the lifespan and the linkage between education, workforce development, and diverse communities worldwide.
Serving learners from pre-college to retirement, Edward has dedicated his life to transforming education and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. With an unwavering commitment to innovation and access, he has made significant contributions to the academic community as an educator, author, public speaker, administrator, and advocate.
His commitment to empowering others extends beyond the classroom and administrative office. Edward is an education innovator who actively participates in bi-national community initiatives to create opportunities for underserved populations. His dedication to philanthropy has led him to support organizations focused on access, education, mentorship, and economic mobility, further solidifying his role as a catalyst for positive change.
Ed has been recognized by UC San Diego, the UC Office of the President, and the California Office of the Governor for his involvement in staff diversity and development initiatives and as a leader in donor stewardship. He serves on various community advisory boards and is a founding trustee of Urban Discovery Schools in San Diego, where he currently serves as the president of the UDA Foundation.
He has a B.A. from the University of New Mexico, an M.A. from the University of San Diego, and a Ph.D. in Post-Secondary Adult Education from Capella University. He served as the Staff Advisor to the University of California Regents from 2008 to 2010. -
Dr. Morgan Appel
Morgan Appel is Assistant Dean for Education and Community Outreach (ECO) at UC San Diego Extension, overseeing a diverse array of programming for PK-post retirement, including opportunities for students, practitioners, administrators, parents, and community stakeholders. He previously served as Director of Education Programs at UC Irvine’s Division of Continuing Education (DCE) following a research appointment at the Claire Trevor School of the Arts at UC Irvine. With expertise in education transformation and policy, Appel has worked with a number of school districts, universities, and research institutes to explore the impacts of legislated and organically-generated change agentry across segments of education. Professional specialties include gifted and talented education; the neuroscience of teaching and learning; arts integration; and organizational behavior in educational institutions. Beyond his current administrative appointment, Appel teaches a variety of courses at both UC San Diego and UC Irvine.
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Dr. Maysoon Lehmeidi
Maysoon Lehmeidi is a Director within the Education and Community Outreach Department at UC San Diego Extension. She has worked for UC San Diego in a variety of different capacities for over 10 years. Prior to working with UC San Diego Extension, she was the Assistant Director of the California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) program at the Jacobs School of Engineering. She also worked in the Division of Biological Sciences as a Program Coordinator, developing and maintaining continuing education programs for professionals in the field of biotechnology. Maysoon received her B.A. in Mathematics and Economics from UC San Diego and received her M.S. in Economics from Boston University. She received her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) from UC San Diego in 2024. -
Amie Becker
Amie Becker is an Associate Director for the Education and Community Outreach Department at UC San Diego Extension. Prior to working with ECO, she ran Extension's flagship Post-Baccalaureate Premedical program in partnership with UCSD School of Medicine, assisting individuals who seek admission to medical school. Amie received her B.A. in Psychology from New York University. -
Megan Lancaster
Megan Lancaster is a dynamic and accomplished leader serving as Assistant Director within UC San Diego's Education and Community Outreach department. With expertise in strategic planning, program development, and outcome-driven evaluation, Megan spearheads initiatives that deliver transformative academic and enrichment opportunities, equipping students to excel in collegiate and professional pursuits.
Before joining UC San Diego, Megan was the Program Supervisor for the Viejas Tribal Education Center, where she played a pivotal role in advancing educational programs tailored to the community's unique needs. Her extensive experience also includes teaching across K-12 levels in both public and private schools in the San Diego area, showcasing her versatility and commitment to educational excellence.
Megan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from San Diego State University, along with a Single-Subject Teaching Credential in Social Science, a Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential, and a Master of Arts in Education from Azusa Pacific University. Her comprehensive academic background and dedication to student success make her a respected voice in the field of education and community outreach.