Earning my Ed.D. from Indiana University was a significant career catalyst that opened several professional doors. Most importantly, it provided a new level of professional credibility that was immediately recognized by my peers. The degree didn't just deepen my knowledge-it elevated my platform for leadership and influence.
The program provided a thoughtful balance of all aspects of the superintendency. While it emphasized curricular leadership, it also challenged me to deeply understand the operational and organizational aspects of leading a large school district.
Through the cohort model, I learned from peers across diverse school corporations, gaining broader insight into leadership challenges and solutions while building lasting relationships that continue to support my work today. The faculty fostered a collaborative culture, pushed me to stretch my thinking, and helped me refine my leadership principles.
IU's Ed.D. program gave me the tools to lead with vision, make data-driven decisions, and adapt to the complex realities of educational leadership. It pushed me to grow both as a critical thinker and as a servant leader.
The Ed.D. program had a tremendous and positive impact on my growth as an educational leader. Most importantly, it empowered me to influence change by supporting schools, shaping district policies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.
The Ed.D. program prepared me by providing rigorous learning experiences that strengthened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills as a leader operating within a complex, yet vital education system. Balancing the demands of the program while serving as a principal sharpened my time management and organizational skills reinforcing my belief that I can take on challenging, purposeful work at a high level.
