Executive Director

Dr. Vena Long

TGA's first executive director, Dr. Vena Long, brings more than 30 years of experience as a teacher, administrator, and scholar. As a fourth-generation teacher—on both sides of her family—Dr. Long says, "Teaching is the ultimate calling, and sharing that passion is a genetic predisposition."

Dr. Long came to the University of Tennessee in 1999 after teaching mathematics education at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. This followed a six-year term as the mathematics consultant for the Missouri Department of Education.

While at UT, Dr. Long has served as a professor of mathematics education and the associate dean for research and professional development in the university's College of Education, Health and Human Sciences. As a researcher, her primary interests are the effective use of technology in the mathematics classroom and mathematics education in rural locations.

Dr. Long earned the Doctor of Education degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and the master's and bachelor's degrees from Northeast Missouri State University (now Truman University). She currently serves on the board of directors of the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics.

Contact Us

Dr. Vena Long, Executive Director
Tennessee Governor’s Academy
The University of Tennessee
College of Education, Health & Human Science
Claxton Education Building
1122 Volunteer Boulevard
Knoxville, TN 37996
Email: vlong@utk.edu
Fax: (865) 974-8718