What a special day celebrating Dr. Arian May and her final dissertation defense! Dr. May's work discusses a very important topic: student success related to academics, attendance, and behavior as defined by ISS, OSS & DAEP placements. questions to gather this student voice data.
Behind every dissertation is a story of perseverance, discipline, and determination. We celebrate those stories, and our incredible graduates who lived them. Dr. Carter, Dr. Johnson, Dr. Stokes, & Dr. Smith, we are honored to celebrate each of you. This moment is well earned.
Today we celebrate Dr. Yvetta Stokes and her final defense! Her research, titled Culturally Responsive School Leadership: Perspectives on Equity in Education, explores the critical role in advancing equity for students who have historically been underserved.
Colloquium 2026 was truly something special! A highlight was hearing from our alumni panel, who shared meaningful insight on leadership, AI, and growth in today's educational landscape. We left feeling empowered, especially after Dr. Cathye Smith shared words of wisdom!
Congratulations to Ashley Carter on a successful proposal! By focusing on parent voice, her study has the potential to strengthen alignment, communication, and support for families and schools. Ashley, we can't wait to see the impact your findings will bring!
Congratulations to Heather Fuston on her outstanding proposal is so knowledgeable and passionate about her topic. She was poised, professional, and incredibly compelling as she shared a critical problem and how she plans to study it. Congratulations again, Heather!!
Congratulations to Kimberly Riepe from on successfully defending her proposal! Her study explores how we got from early labor laws to academic calendars, economic pressures, and policies like HB 2610 that redefined instructional time. Kim’s research is important and timely work!
Dr. Cathye Smith successfully defended her dissertation! She provided insightful information and key takeaways for districts who desire to support and develop new principals, especially when the education profession is seeing increased attrition for principals and teachers.
We celebrate Joy Shepherd on a thoughtful proposal! Her study, Strengths Coaching and Leadership Retention: examines the perceptions of charter school principals about the impact of using the Gallup Strengths coaching. We are very excited to see what Joy discovers.
Huge congratulations to Cindy Abrego Rodriguez for successfully defending her proposal! Cindy’s study examines the ECHS in a large, urban district & how its advising, program structures, and supports influence students’ ability to complete their associate’s degree.
We had such a wonderful time hosting the Servant Leadership & Law Conference last week! It was a meaningful day filled with thoughtful conversations, valuable learning, and connection with educators and leaders who are committed to serving their districts and communities well.
Congratulations to Edgardo Villalobos Palomec for successfully defending his proposal! We're excited for his research exploring the perceptions of school board presidents or board members regarding the preparation superintendents receive from Christian universities.
We celebrate and give heartfelt thanks for Dr. Deanna Jenkins, Cohort 3, who is retiring after six years of faithful service as Dean of the Dorothy M. Bush College of Education. As she steps into retirement and a new chapter of life, we wish her rest, joy, and continued purpose.
We are thrilled to celebrate John Hodges on the successful defense of his dissertation proposal! His study speaks to his dedication to literacy & to the characteristics skills leaders need to successfully lead an organization through a significant change that will be sustained.
We are so proud of Dr. Sheniqua Johnson for successfully defending her dissertation! Due to inclement weather and a campus closure, Sheniqua completed her final defense virtually, and she delivered virtually.
It's time to MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Our doctoral program is hosting the Servant Leadership & Law Conference on February 11th! Breakfast and lunch are provided. The cost is $49.00. Come learn, connect, and be a transformational leader!
Registration: https://t.co/CIYQf1htrA
This moment reflects years of discipline, sacrifice, and steady commitment to the work. Congratulations to Dr. Abimbola Olagbami (Cohort 8), Dr. Danna Forbes-Martin (Cohort 17), Dr. Heidi Bragg (Cohort 18), and Dr. Jeremy Williams (Cohort 21) on earning their doctoral degree!