W. Lee Pierce (Willie), a native of Indianola, MS, has been a professional educator since 1970. Prior to his appointment at WCU, he taught junior high school mathematics, was a doctoral fellow at North Carolina State University, and served as professor and Dean of Education and Psychology for 38 years. His professional interests include adult basic education, adult continuing education, adult human development, first generation higher education students, and higher education administration. Willie has been married to his wife, Carol, since 1970, and they have three adult children and six grandchildren. He admires great sports cars and loves to discuss all automobiles.

ED.D. in Adult and Community College Education, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
M.Ed. in Secondary School Principalship (emphasis in Adult Education), Delta State University, Cleveland, MS
B.S.E. in Mathematics Education, Delta State University, Cleveland, MS