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NEWSLETTER

WELCOME ! ! !

SAN JOSÉ STATE UNIVERSITY FALL 2026

FALL 2026 RISING Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

RISING TOGETHER Welcome to the Fall 2026 edition of the SJSU Ed.D. Leadership Program Newsletter. This issue celebrates a community of scholar-practitioners who are rising together through research, leadership, service, and global engagement. From welcoming students of Cohort 13 to celebrating our faculty, students, and alumni, we invite you to explore the many ways our progam continues to lead with purpose and impact.

ABOUT US The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership at SJSU prepares equitydriven leaders to change schools, colleges, universities, and communities. Through research, collaboration, and transformative practice, our students develop the knowledge and leadership skills they need to create meaningful change across educational systems. https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/ CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS Program Director’s Message New Faculty Members

SEC 1 SEC 2

New Core Faculty New Affiliated Faculty

Students

SEC 3

Cohort 13 Summer and Fall 2026 Graduates Fall 2026 Doris Prince Awardees

Achievements Core Faculty Achievements Student Achievements Alumni Achievements

SEC 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS SEC 5

Ed.D. Student Organization Ed.D. Student Association (EDDSA)

SEC 6

Ed.D. Events 2026 CPED Convening Lunch and Rock Climbing Ed.D. Luncheon Summer 2026 Global Trip Cohort 13 Student Orientation

SEC 7

Ed.D. Alumni Network’s Message

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PROGRAM DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Newsletter PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Fall 2026 Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

THE MESSAGE WELCOME TO OUR FALL 2026 NEWSLETTER! This past summer, we were delighted to welcome Cohort 13, our newest group of 49 doctoral students. Thirty-three members of the cohort currently serve in PK–12 schools, while the remaining sixteen work in community colleges and other higher education institutions. In addition to their outstanding achievements, professional backgrounds, and diverse experiences, they share leadership goals that align with our Ed.D. Program Vision: to develop transformative leaders who deeply understand sources of inequity affecting all constituent communities, especially those from minoritized groups, and who are prepared to use rigorous applied research methods to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the communities they serve. I invite you to explore our published dissertations in the SJSU ScholarWorks Repository for examples of the critical knowledge praxis that emerged from our students’ research. This fall semester, we are also proud to welcome the officially recognized Ed.D. Student Association (EDDSA) to our community. EDDSA represents the collective voice of the 132 current students who make up such an important part of our doctoral community. We also welcome seven new core and affiliated faculty and celebrate our Doris Prince Scholars, including three doctoral students who recently completed their dissertation research.

Ferdie Rivera ferdinand.rivera@sjsu.edu

Please enjoy the photos from the Summer 2026 Global Field Experience to Vietnam and Thailand, as well as our recent community gatherings — from the Summer 2026 Orientation to the fun-filled rock climbing activity that took place just a few Saturdays ago at the SJSU Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center. Special thanks to Lin Chao (Cohort 13, EdD ‘29) for taking the photo on the left. I’m the one more than halfway up the wall! We always value opportunities to gather over good food, strengthen our networks, and celebrate one another and our growing community. The remaining pages highlight recent achievements of our outstanding faculty, alumni, and current students. I hope everyone is holding up well now that we are more than halfway through this semester!

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02 NEW FACULTY MEMBERS

Newsletter NEW FACULTY MEMBERS

WELCOME

Fall 2026 Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

NEW CORE FACULTY ANDREW CARTER, PH.D. Associate Professor | Department of Communication Studies Program Director | Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) • Primary research interests - Food systems and health; critical health communication/public health; health disparities; intercultural communication

• Awards, honors, or recognitions Distinguished Article Award – National Communication Association, Health Communication Division (2024) Tenure-Track Faculty Scholarly

• Current or recent research focus - Excellence Award – San Jose State (Black) agricultural justice and University, College of Health and public health; community food Human Sciences (2022) security Top Paper – 108th National • Methods or theoretical frameworks Communication Association Annual specialize in - Critical-constructivist Convention, African American methodologies; community-based Communication and Culture Division participatory research (CBPR); (2022) ethnography, critical discourse Top Poster – 70th International analysis Association • Recent published works - Journal of Communication, Communication Theory, Health Communication

Communication, Journal of Applied Communication Research, Health Promotion Practice, Conference, Health Communication Division (2019) and Critical Public Health. • Primary investigator on the Santa • Education background Clara County African Ancestry Food Undergraduate: Journalism, California State University Northridge Study, an academic-community Master’s 1: Master of Arts, Communication, SJSU partnership with We Start Gardens Master’s 2: Master of Public Health, University of Memphis examining how African Ancestry Doctoral: Communication, University of Memphis residents navigate the local food • Past academic or leadership positions Assistant Professor, San Jose State University, Department of Public Health and Recreation, 2019-2025 Affiliate Faculty, San Jose State University, Department of Educational Leadership 2021-present (EDLD 10 and 11) Program Coordinator, San Jose State University, MPH Online Program, Department of Public Health and Recreation, 2021-2022

system and describe food-related behaviors, attitudes, cultural norms, and experiences. Grounded in community-based participatory research (CBPR), the project centers collaboration with various community partners throughout the research

process to co-create knowledge, • International experience related to teaching, research, or leadership Conducted community-based participatory research with participants in Africa and USVI for center community perspectives, and generate findings relevant to the Black farmer research Santa Clara County African Ancestry • Major books, edited volumes, or significant publications community. Seeds of Sovereignty: Critical Public Health, Radical Sisterhood, and the Fight for Agricultural Justice (OUP) Board member – African American • Grants, fellowships, or funding received - SJSU RSCA Seed Grant (June 2023)

Community (AACSA)

Services

Agency

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW FACULTY MEMBERS

WELCOME

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

NEW CORE FACULTY ERICA COLMENARES, Ed.D. Associate Professor | Department of Humanities Coordinator | Liberal Studies Teacher Preparation Program Erica Eva Colmenares is an Associate Professor of Humanities and coordinator of the Liberal Studies Teacher Preparation Program at San Jose State University. Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, she received her doctorate in Curriculum Studies from Teachers College, Columbia University. Prior to her doctoral studies, she taught for several years as an elementary school teacher in international schools in Indonesia and Kuwait, Her research

Journal of Educational Supervision, Reconceptualizing Educational Research Methodologies, and Education Policy Analysis Archives. She has also published numerous op-eds in outlets including the San Francisco Chronicle, Newsweek, and USA Today. Her latest book, Affect, Learning, and Teacher Education: Getting Stuck in Social Justice, coauthored with Dr. Scott Jarvie

(SJSU), was a finalist for the interests include preservice teacher education, learning to teach for social justice, and Outstanding Book of the Year award posthumanist theories of affect. Her work has been published in International Review of from the American Educational Qualitative Research, Philosophy of Education, Professional Development in Education, Research Association's (AERA) Division B.

ELENI DURET, PH.D. Assistant Professor | Liberal Studies Teacher Preparation Department of Humanity Eleni Duret, PhD, is an Assistant Professor for the Liberal Studies Teacher Preparation program within the Department of Humanities at San Jose State University (College of the Arts and Humanities). Previously, she was the inaugural Center for Urban Education Success (CUES) Postdoctoral Fellow at the Warner School of Education and Human Development at the University of Rochester. Her academic and professional teaching identities are informed by experiences teaching in informal learning environments, such as art museums and after-school collegeaccess programs for K-12 youth.

Her most recent publication uses arts-based research to understand the complex, relational, and layered nature of identity formation between secondary arts teachers and students (Duret, 2026). She is currently collaborating with Counseling Education faculty Veneice GuilloryLacy (SJSU) to conduct interdisciplinary research identifying and exploring the legacy of Black, female teacher excellence in the Bay Area. Her current work at SJSU aims to understand the barriers that limit access to, interest in, and suatainability within the teaching profession for Black and Brown students, preservice teachers, and current educators.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW FACULTY MEMBERS

WELCOME

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

NEW CORE FACULTY GARY SHAFFER, PH.D. Assistant Professor | School of Information

Dr. Gary Shaffer is an Assistant Professor of Library Leadership and Administration at San José State University’s School of Information and an advisor in the Connie L. Lurie College of Education’s EdD program in Educational Leadership. He also coordinates INFO 204, Information Professions. Dr. Shaffer’s research and doctoral advising focus on leadership development, organizational change, sustainability, emotional intelligence, and the impact of artificial intelligence on educational and information organizations. His current work examines AI literacy among academic library professionals, micro-credentialing and workforce development, and leadership competencies in the age of AI. His scholarhsip draws on applied, practice-based inquiry, mixed- methods research, and the triple-bottom-line framework for sustainability. His work has appeared in Public Library Quarterly and Library Management. He is the author of the books Emotional Intelligence and Critical Thinking for Library Leaders and Creating the

Sustainable Public Library: The Triple Bottom Line Approach, and co-editor of The Sustainable Library’s Cookbook. Before joining SJSU, Dr. Shaffer served as Director of Libraries in Palm Desert and Glendale, Assistant Dean at the University of Southern California (USC) Libraries, and CEO of the Tulsa City-County Library. He earned his PhD from Simmons University, an LLM from the University of Turin, an MLIS from Pratt Institute, and an MPW from USC. His international experience includes professional work with IFLA and the United Nations’ World Intellectual Property Organization.

KAREN D. WANG, PH.D. Assistant Professor | Department of Instructional Design and Technology School of Information Dr. Karen Wang is an Assistant Her doctoral research utilized PhET Professor of Instructional Design Simulations to analyze and model and Technology at the iSchool at student problem-solving processes, San José State University. She earned her Ph.D. in Learning and she now leads development of Sciences and Technology Design generative AI tools that cultivate and M.A. in Learning Design and problem-solving and decision-making Technology from Stanford skills for college students. Dr. Wang University. Her research bridges has experience teaching in the learning sciences theories, humancentered design, and learning Learning Design and Technology analytics to transform technology program at Standford University. She integration in education, with is dedicated to mentoring and particular focus on STEM education supporting students in designing and support for neurodivergent effective learning experiences enhanced by technology and empowering students to thrive learners. in an AI-integrated future.

Newsletter NEW FACULTY MEMBERS

WELCOME

Fall 2026 Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

NEW CORE FACULTY WAYNE JOPANDA, PH.D. Assistant Professor | Department of Asian American Studies and Sociology & Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Founder | Brokada Filipino Men’s Healing Collective Founding Associate Director | Bulosan Center for Filipinx Studies (UC Davis) Dr. Wayne Silao Jopanda is an Assistant Professor of Asian American Studies within the Department of Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences at San Jose State University. He received his PhD in Cultural Studies from the University of California, Davis, where he researched Filipino student experiences with burn out, labor trafficked Filipino teachers, and both cases’ connections to the history of U.S. colonial education in

Wayne is the Director of Scholarships for the Filipino Alumni Network of SJSU and serves as a selection committee member for the upcoming SJSU Filipino History Mural which aims to highlight the contributions of Filipino community organizers past and present. Wayne also serves on the Africana, Asian American, Chicano, & Native American Studies

Center (AAACNA) committee and has organized the annual Asian the Philippines. Wayne’s research also engages men of color mental health and American History Month Art Exhibit. liberated/healing masculinities, the imapct of pop culture and anime on U.S. based men of Wayne has taught at Antioch color, the experiences of students of color and first generation collee students in higher University Seattle, UC Davis, UC education, and the growing role of talk story/kuwentuhan in Ethnic Studies curriculum, Berkeley, St. Mary’s College, and De spaces, and community organizing. Wayne is a co-founder and Associate Director of the Anza College. Committed to Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies, a grassroots national community engaged Filipino community-engaged scholarship, Studies research center. Wayne is also the founder of the Brokada Filipino Men’s Healing Collective, a community driven bimonthly healing circle that is committed to holding space Wayne’s work aims to support and for mental health and healed libretayed masculinity within communities of color. Wayne uplift Critical Ethnic Studies through serves as an organizing committee member of the Critical Filipinx Studies Collective. his community organizing and academic work.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW FACULTY MEMBERS

WELCOME

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

NEW AFFILIATED FACULTY DYRELL FOSTER, Ed.D. Lecturer | Ed.D. Leadership Program President | Las Positas College Dr. Dyrell Foster has dedicated State University. He has also served more than 25 years to serving as a part-time lecturer in the Colleges students in the California of Education at CSU Long Beach and Community College system. A firstgeneration college student, he CSU Fullerton. Dr. Foster earned an in Higher Education brings a deep commitment to Ed.D. equity, access, and student success Administration from the University of to his role as President of Las Southern California, an M.S. in Positas College, where he fosters a Counseling from California State collaborative, student-centered learning environment focused on University, Long Beach, and a B.S. in meaningful outcomes. His extensive Applied Behavioral Science from the leardership experience includes University of California, Davis, where serving as Vice President of Stuhe was co-captain of the Aggies

dent Services at Moreno Valley College; Dean of Student Affairs at Rio Hondo College; football team. Associate Dean of Counseling and Director of Student Life ar Mt. San Antonio College; Director of Student Life at Evergreen Valley College; and Activities Coordinator at San José

ROY DANOVITCH, Ed.D. Assistant Professor | Ed.D. Leadership Program Visiting Assistant Professor of Teaching | Teachers College Dr. Roy Danovitch explores ways in inclusive leadership and race, and which ethics and philosophy shape communities of inquiry. He earned a leadership practice, particularly B.A. in Communications and English during moments of social and political crisis. His research also from the University of California, examines dialogic and democratic Santa Barbara; an M.A. in Literature organizational structures and their from the University of California, influence on political agency and Irvine; and an M.Ed. in Education student voice. He has taught Leadership and Ed.D. in Organization courses related to access and equity in schools, educational and Leadership and Philosophy of ethics, the politics of school Education from Teachers College, leadership, research methods, and Columbia University, where he is also humanistic inquiry. His recent currently serving as a Visiting scholarship includes work on Assistant Professor of Teaching, Education Leadership. alternative educational spaces,

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03 STUDENTS

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

COHORT 13

CLASS OF 2029

WELCOME

AFFAF WASEEM Hometown: Modesto, CA Undergraduate: B.A. | Global Studies, Religious Studies | University of California, Riverside Graduate: M.A. | Ethics, Peace and Global Affairs | American University

esearch Interests: My research interests include social identity, belonging, and institutional recognition in higher education; SWANA and South Asian student experiences; culturally sustaining and decolonial leadership practices; and the relationship between student advocacy, institutional policy, and administrative decision making in these contexts.

tive hobbies such as crochet and cross stitch, stationery, being out in nature, and gardening. I love spending time with family and learning more about the world interconnectedness of life.

Personal Interests: My personal interests include traveling, journaling, reading, crea-

ALEJANDRA TAPIA CRUZ Hometown: Rubidoux/Moreno Valley, CA Undergraduate: BA, English, CSU-San Bernardino Graduate: MA, Education, CSU-San Bernardino

esearch Interests: My research interests include multilingual learners, first-generation students, and the ways schools serve marginalized communities. I am interested in how leadership can create systems that not only improve academic outcomes, but also foster a strong sense of belonging and ensure students are valued within their school communities. I also want to explore how staff culture plays a role in this work. Particularly how collaboration, expectations,

and overall school climate can either support or limit equitable practices. Personal Interests: I enjoy spending time with my daughter and family, caring for our pet chihuahua, as well as cooking and traveling.

and

the

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

AMY GURICH Hometown: Santa Clara, California Undergraduate: B.A. English Cal Poly Pomona Graduate: M.A. Education & Administration SJSU

with others in community. esearch Interests: My research interests building include the intersection of teaching ped- Engagement with ART of any kind (movies, agogy, theory, and practice -- most books, musicals) is always at the top of my list specifically, Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy. of preferred activities. Personal Interests: My personal interests include the care and keeping of my family, including two rescue dogs named Sunny and Sam. I love time spent connecting and

ANTARA KSHETTRY Hometown: Global citizen Undergraduate: B.A. | International Studies | American University Graduate: M.Ed. | Montessori Education | Whitworth University

esearch Interests: Early childhood education, Montessori education, literacy and Education policy.

Personal Interests: Avid reader, dancer, hot yoga enthusiast and enjoy cooking and coming up with new recipes.

ANDREA BERTERO Hometown: Gilroy, California Undergraduate: B.A, Communication, SJSU Graduate: M.U.P. Master of Urban Planning, SJSU

Personal Interests: My personal interests include singing and performing, real estate, fitness activities such as CrossFit and walking, community engagement, animal rescue and fostering through Santa Clara County Animal Services, and youth development through 4-H and Girl Scouts. I also enjoy public policy, local history, and exploring ways to strengthen communities through planning and education. Much of my free time is centered around volunteering, mentoring youth, homeschooling my children, and advocacy, alternative educational pathways, and strengthening partnerships participating in community events that bring between schools, families, and local communities. Through my Ed.D. studies, I people together. hope to further explore leadership approaches that promote equity, civic engagement, and meaningful community impact. esearch Interests: My research interests focus on educational leadership, community engagement, and equitable access to opportunity. I am particularly interested in how educational systems, local planning, and public policy intersect to shape student success and community wellbeing. My academic work has explored housing policy, land use planning, sustainability, and community-centered redevelopment, including research on the future of the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds. I am also interested in parent

“Become an equity-minded and justice-driven transformative leader who thrive in a diverse, complex, and technologically advanced world.” https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

BARBARA PERRY-PEREZ Hometown: Palo Alto, California Undergraduate: BA degree in American History, San Jose State University Graduate: MA degree in American History, San Jose State

esearch Interests: At risk students and the impact of trauma on individual learning.

Personal Interests: family, hiking, Golden Bay Warriors, Santa Cruz Warriors, quilting.

CHRISTINA GRAHAM Hometown: Santa Cruz, CA Undergraduate: BS Business Administration, UC Riverside Graduate: MA Interdisciplinary Education, Santa Clara University

esearch Interests: I am really interested in many topics that have affected my own teaching career, including the effect of opt-in professional development, inclusive practices for linguistically and ability diverse students (both at the systems and classroom level), and connections between learning and various types of personal connection.

Personal Interests: I LOVE gardening, crafting, and walking to the beach (cliché, I know!)

esearch Interests: My research interests food with my children; and supporting them as center on creating liberatory learning en- they explore their expanding curiosities. vironments that promote democratic principles, with an emphasis on how TK-12 schools can cultivate students’ capacity for active, critical civic engagement.

Personal Interests: My personal interests include spending quality time with my family; sharing my love of sport, travel, art, and

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

DANIELLE NOBLE Hometown: New York Undergraduate: BA English SUNY Plattsburgh Graduate: MLIS Information Literacy Instruction SJSU

esearch Interests: Neurodiversity in Higher Education. Personal Interests: Reading, drinking tea, traveling.

ERIC GARCIA Hometown: Soledad, California Undergraduate: Social Work, San Jose State University Graduate: Social Work, San Jose State University

esearch Interests: My research interests center on Alternative Education, specifically advocating for expelled and atpromising youth at Community Day Schools. The focus on institutional barriers and stigma endured by Alternative Education students. Through my work, I aim to expand on the limited research on this field, establish equitable best practices, dismantle systemic bias, and create pathways for students' holistic reintegration into traditional academic environments.

Personal Interests: Outside of my professional life, I am committed to staying active and curious. Whether it's through morning workouts, weekend hikes, or reading a book. I am passionate about traveling and experiencing new cultures. Still find the greatest moments by being mindfully present with my loved ones.

GINA MURIERA Hometown: Rodeo, CA Undergraduate: BA Creative Arts/Preparation for Teaching, SJSU Graduate: M. Ed. Counseling & Student Personnel, SJSU

esearch Interests: Current questions being asked in my research exploration: What do culturally diverse college students look for in their instructors to feel psychologically safe asking questions? How does a feeling of belonging and support help students overcome academic setbacks?

Personal Interests: The arts are integrated into all of my interests [plus beyond this list] to achieve personal self-expansion: Celebrating my family's Mexican and Filipino cultures, live shows & concerts,

tv & movies, house parties, restaurants & take-out, cooking & baking, museums, libraries, bookstores, coffeeshops, being in nature, the sciences: therapy, medicine, human lifespan, animals, ecology, and transformative education.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

GOKCEN CERAN Hometown: Morgan Hill, CA Undergraduate: Bachelor / Chemical Engineering / Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul Graduate: Master of Education (M.Ed.) / Educational Leadership, UT Tyler / TX

esearch Interests: My research interests include special education, student advocacy, curriculum and instructional support, and the use of technology to enrich and improve learning experiences for all students. I am especially interested in creating inclusive learning environments that support student success academically, socially, and emotionally.

Personal Interests: My personal interests include spending time with family, international travel, exploring different cultures and languages, faith-based learning, and collecting vintage teacups.

GRACE SKALINDER Hometown: Turlock, California Undergraduate: B.A. | History | UCLA Graduate: MLIS | Library and Information Science | UCLA

esearch Interests: My research interests include academic and liaison librarianship, Indigenous systems of knowledge, and the experiences of multiracial people in higher education. Personal Interests: Reading, creative writing, video games, hiking, yoga, spending time with friends & family.

GRECIA RIVAS Hometown: San Diego, California Undergraduate: BA, Chicano/a Studies with a Minor in Counseling and Social Change, San Diego State University Graduate: MEd, Education Counseling, San Diego State University

esearch Interests: Transborderism between the Mexico and U.S border among students. The norm of living in 2 countries to get an education and survive in society. Personal Interests: A few new years ago, I told myself I’d visit a new city every year. So find me in a new city trying good food.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

GULNAR TABASSUM Hometown: San Jose, California Undergraduate: Bachelor's in Commerce, Osmania University, India Graduate: Masters in Education San Jose State University and Masters in Commerce, Osmania University Hyderabad

esearch Interests: Retention of minority novice educators and lowering the attrition rate.

Personal Interests: Spending time with family, cooking, traveling, and gardening.

HECTOR ALMENDAREZ BENAVIDEZ Hometown: Sunnyvale, CA Undergraduate: B.A. in History & English, Notre Dame de Namur University Graduate: Master's in Education, Stanford University

esearch Interests: experiences of immigrant students, students with a non-English first language, minority students with a focus on the Latin experience.

Personal Interests: Playing bass, video games, card games, cars.

LIN CHAO Hometown: Mountain View, CA Undergraduate: S.B. | Electrical Eng. & Computer Science | Massachusetts Institute of Technology Graduate: M.B.A | Business | University of Chicago

esearch Interests: Intersection of education, AI, robotics and elder care to develop accessible technology and instructional frameworks to support aging populations and healthcare educators.

Personal Interests: Shotokan karate, food & cuisines.

JESSICA ARAIZA Hometown: Novato Undergraduate: UCLA Graduate: Alliant International University

esearch Interests: Systemic change, Metacognition, Equity, social justice.

Personal Interests: Dance, nature, moving water, music, people, brains.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

JESSICA M HANNA Hometown: Fresno, California Undergraduate: B.A. | Fashion Merchandising, CSU, Fresno Graduate: M.S. | Instructional Design & Technology |CSU, Fullerton

esearch Interests: Asynchronous Program Pipelines from Associates to Doctorates.

Personal Interests: Art and Technology.

JESUS HERNANDEZ Hometown: Bayview–Hunters Point, San Francisco Undergraduate: BFA Photography Graduate: MA Educational leadership

esearch Interests: Maker spaces, Personal Interests: Archery, photography, teacher education, unionization and coll- design, fabrication, paleontology, coffee, ective bargaining, emerging technologies, cats, gunpla, repairing. tenure track equity, digital literacy, digital accessibility, First-Generation College Students, Limited-Income College Students.

JOSEPHINE PRISCILLA LUNA MEDINA Hometown: San Jose, CA Undergraduate: BA Creative Arts SJSU Graduate: MA Education SJSU

esearch Interests: My research interests include : sense of belonging, mental wellness, intersectionality in education, math development. Personal Interests: My personal interests include : studying mental and physical wellness, neuroscience (specifically understanding trauma and how it manifest

in the mind and body), interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships with the goal of understanding the self and unveiling the impact that the intersection of social identities has on human dynamics.

JUAN HUERTA VILLICANA Hometown: Michoacán, Mexico Undergraduate: BA, Child and Adolescent Development, San Jose State University Graduate: MA, Child and Adolescent Development, San Jose State University

esearch Interests: Undocumented Personal Interests: Playing musical student services in higher education as instruments, dancing, and attending cultural systems for success. Bilingualism in the events. early years, specifically native languages from Mexico's souther pacific area. Mexican Folklore as supportive systems of belonging in higher education.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

JULIA SANCHEZ Hometown: Salinas, CA Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies From CSU Monterey Bay Graduate: Master of Arts in Education - Curriculum & Instruction from CSU Monterey Bay

esearch Interests: My research interest are in education; my goal is to explore the educational challenges faced by multilingual elementary students and focus on the interventions currently used to support their reading instruction and writing

skills. Personal Interests: My personal interest are hiking, traveling, and spending time with family.

esearch Interests: Educational equity, student mental health, and trauma-informed practices in high-needs schools.

Personal Interests: Spending time with friends & family, being out doors, traveling, and baking.

LATOYA RAMSEY Hometown: Sacramento, CA Undergraduate: Bachelors/Psychology/Sacramento State Graduate: Masters/Social Work/University of Southern California

esearch Interests: Disparities/barriers on academic success in black and brown students.

Personal Interests: I love documentaries, learning, and the beach.

LELAND HANSEN Hometown:Novato, CA Undergraduate: B.A. International Relations and B.A. Spanish - CSU Chico Graduate: Masters in Teaching - Brandman University

esearch Interests: Holistic student discipline and wellness, closing achievement gap and addressing disproportionality/inequity.

Personal Interests: Sports, music, outdoors, travel and politics.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

LENA JAYADEV Hometown: San Jose, CA Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore Graduate: Master of Arts in Teaching, San José State University Master of Engineering in Computer Science and Engineering, Anna University Master of Science in Computer Science, Bharathiar University

esearch Interests: My research interests focus on educational leadership, elementary literacy, and equitable learning environments. I am particularly interested in how relationship-centered leadership fosters belonging, student voice, and academic growth. I also explore how cognitive psychology and thoughtfully designed educational technologies can strengthen literacy instruction while ensuring equitable and inclusive learning experiences for

all students. Personal Interests: Outside of education, I enjoy motorcycle riding, woodworking, archery, and exploring different cultures through travel. I am also interested in sustainable urbanism and ethnobotany, which reflect my curiosity about the relationships between people, places, and the natural world.

LILIANA FUERTE CALDERON Hometown: Guanajuato, Mexico Undergraduate: B.S. Kinesiology San Jose State University Graduate: M.A. Kinesiology San Jose State University

esearch Interests: Retention of Undocumented students in higher education, Peer-Assisted Learning, Historically marginalized students in higher education.

Personal Interests: Hiking, weight lifting, going on long walks with my dog to the beach.

LYSSA GOMEZ Hometown: Tulare, CA Undergraduate: B.A., Family Consumer Sciences, California State University, Fresno Graduate: M.A., Higher Education Administration and Leadership, California State University, Fresno

esearch Interests: Professional development, student experience, access, inclusion and belonging.

MAIRE MCDERMID Hometown:Davis, CA Undergraduate: Art History, Mills College Graduate: MA Education, UCD

esearch Interests: Arts in education, PBL, Equity.

Personal Interests: nature, family.

Travel,

art,

music,

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

MARISTELLA TAPIA Hometown: San Jose, CA Undergraduate: Sociology, UC Berkeley Graduate: Ethnic Studies, UC Berkeley

esearch Interests: Experience of Personal Interests: Enjoying time with students with learning disabilities in family, reading novels/fiction, hiking, cycling, community college environments; The gardening. impact of Ed Tech and AI on student literacy skills; learning communities, persistence and success.

esearch Interests: Examine demographic discrepancies between school leadership and the diverse student populations they serve.

Personal Interests: Spending time with my husband and two daughters. Walking my two parti-Yorkies, Bonbon and Azucar.

MELISA TORRICO Hometown: San Jose, California Undergraduate: Business Administration | Management | SJSU Graduate: Higher Education Leadership | SJSU

esearch Interests: College and Career Readiness. Personal Interests: Spending time with family and traveling.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

MICHAEL STEVENS Hometown: San Jose, CA Undergraduate: BA in Philosophy & Religious Studies from San Jose State University Graduate: MA in English Literature from San Francisco State University

esearch Interests: I am interested in researching the gender gap with regard to high school graduation rates. I would like to research how teachers and schools can support adolescent males and engage them in the learning process. As a high school teacher, I've had numerous male students tell me that high school is not for them. I woud like to explore why so many young mean feel this way and what people as well

as institutions could do to address the issue. Personal Interests: I love story-telling in all its forms, so I regularly attend the performing arts such as plays, operas, ballets, musicals, and concerts. I love running outside, and I occasionally participate in races throughout the year. I have also recently developed a passion for cooking and learning new recipes. When I want to relax, I'll throw on a scary movie.

QUINTIN GLOVER Hometown: Oakland, CA Undergraduate: BA Business Administration | Morehouse College Graduate: MA Sport Management | University of San Francisco

esearch Interests: African American students achievement gap, education technology, equity centered organization leadership, and resource allocation.

Personal Interests: Basketball, fashion, music, film, and art.

RANDYN A. HEISSERER-MILLER Hometown: San Diego, CA Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts | Music | Oklahoma State University Graduate: Master of Music | Vocal Performance & Pedagogy | New England Conservatory of Music Master of Library and Information Sciences | University of Missouri

esearch Interests:Change management, organizational culture, strategic collection development, DEIA.

Personal Interests: Concerts, national parks, hiking, running, and cooking.

ROBERTO RUIZ Hometown: Los Angeles, CA Undergraduate: Sociology, CSULB Graduate: Social & Cultural Analysis of Education, CSULB

esearch Interests: My research interests are grounded in my values of urban student resistance. Community College transfer rates, First Generation student persistence in higher education, and the California Master Plan needing to be critically re-evaluated to meet the changing demographics of California. My research interests ensure that disadvantaged students have the opportunity to attend and

complete higher education. Personal Interests: Beyond me being an educator, I enjoy running marathons, skating, stand up paddleboarding and surfing. With me being a lifeguard a majority of my life and teaching communities to be brave in the water, I aspire to ensure that all students feel a sense of safeness and readiness to learn.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

RONALD TOWNS Hometown: Oakland, CA Undergraduate: BA - Statistics and Secondary Education, Columbia University Graduate: M.Ed - Teacher Leadership, Elmhurst College; M.Ed - Instructional Leadership, REACH Institute of School Leadership

esearch Interests: How Principals build inclusive schools where students with disabilities achieve at high levels.

Personal Interests: Live music, triathlons, Spartan races, local DJs, politics.

SARA O’MALLEY Hometown: LaCrescenta, CA Undergraduate: BA English Literature/Minor Women Studies, Stony Brook University, NY Graduate: MS Adolescent Education/English, Dowling College, NY

esearch Interests: Inclusion, advocacy, school systems being built to provide high level accommodations within the general education classroom.

Personal Interests: My children, music, animals.

SHAWN CALHOUN Hometown: San Francisco, CA Undergraduate: BA, English | San Francisco State University Graduate: MA, English | San Francisco State University

esearch Interests: My research interests center on reader-response theory, rhetorical effectiveness, and English education, particularly within first-year composition and community college classrooms. I am interested in how students make meaning through reading and writing,

SKYELAR CRIBBS Hometown: Sacramento, CA Undergraduate: Undergraduate B.S. Political Science and psychology from Portland State University Graduate: M.S. Criminal Justice University of Southern California

esearch Interests: Federal and private funding and its impact on students.

Personal Interests: Allocation of funding to schools and its impacts on students and other area of interest is the no child left behind program and its impact on student progression.

and how culturally responsive and inclusive pedagogies can support critical thinking, reflection, and student agency. Personal Interests: I enjoy spending time with my three cats, visiting museums, thrifting, and collecting first edition books.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

TANISHA FITZGERALD Hometown: San Jose, CA Undergraduate: BA/Mathematics/UC Santa Cruz Graduate: MA/Education/UC Santa Cruz

esearch Interests: My area of interest focuses on the experiences of Black women in leadership in secondary schools in California. My aim is to gain an understanding of how these administrators navigate Predominantly White Institutions and to determine which types of support are most effective in helping them overcome the challenges of being both Black and a woman in today’s education system.

Personal Interests: When I'm not teaching Math or working with student leaders, you’ll usually find me spending time in community with family and friends or walking my dog while listening to an audiobook but I try to take a trip at least once a year so that I can hear the sound of street musicians in New Orleans, catch a sunset on Kauai, or root for the Raiders in Las Vegas.

VERNESHA THOMAS Hometown:Northridge, CA Undergraduate: B.A. | Psychology | California State University, Northridge Graduate: M.B.A. | Business Administration | University of Phoenix

esearch Interests: My research interests focus on how school leaders create organizational coherence to improve teaching and learning. Throughout my career, I have observed schools implementing multiple initiatives intended to improve student outcomes, but those efforts are not always connected through a cohesive framework. I am interested in understanding how school leaders create alignment across a school and how that

alignment influences student outcomes, particularly for historically underserved student populations. Personal Interests: Outside of education, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, supporting my daughter in her journey as a figure skater, and traveling. I especially enjoy cruising and hope to cruise my way around the world one destination at a time. I also enjoy café brunches, golfing, and finding time to just relax and recharge.

XIAOZHEN LI Hometown: Santa Clara, CA Undergraduate: BA in Chinese with a Minor in Education, UC Davis Graduate: MA in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language, Beijing Normal University; Calirfornia Teaching Credential - Chinese

esearch Interests: My research focuses on teacher development and bilingual education, especially supporting educators working with multilingual learners. I am interested in how mentorship and leadership systems can improve teacher retention and strengthen bilingual programs.

Personal Interests: I love traveling and have explored 11 countries. I enjoy immersing myself in different languages and cultures. Honestly, who can resist authentic local food? I also love fitness dance, which keeps me energized and happy.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

NEW STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

YESENIA VARGAS-NAVARRO Hometown: Vista, CA Undergraduate: B.A. Liberal Studies, Mathematics Concentration Graduate: M.A. Multicultural & Multilingual Education, CSU San Marcos

esearch Interests: I am passionate to study and explore how systemic structures can be redesigned for multilingual learners of underrepresented backgrounds. Specifically, I want to focus on how current systems create barriers for multilingual learners like acquiring English proficiency, access to reclassification, and meeting A-G requirements for college and career readiness.

Personal Interests: In my free time, I enjoy hiking, traveling, and beach walks. I also love learning about different cultures and trying new foods from around the world. I enjoy being spontaneous, exploring new places, and having experiences that keep life exciting and meaningful.

YESENIA MARQUEZ-BEAS Hometown: Guadalupe, California Undergraduate: Bachelors of Science | Psychology | California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo Graduate: Masters of Science | Higher Education Counseling and Student Affairs | California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo

esearch Interests: I hope to explore how first-generation and underrepresented students develop a sense of belonging, engage with institutional systems, and navigate their academic pathways.

Personal Interests: My personal interest are supporting underrepresented students and marginalized communities in higher education. Outside of work, the most important aspect of my life is my family, God, traveling, and learning new topics.

ZULEMA L. GARIBO GONZALEZ Hometown: Menlo Park, CA Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts | Communication Studies | San Jose State University Graduate: Master of Arts | Teaching | University of Southern California

esearch Interests: My research interests are centered on the impacts of immigration on educational systems and the overall quality of education experienced by students, teachers, and families. I would like to explore the unique challenges faced by immigrant students pursuing higher education, including significant language and systemic barriers, as well as their access to opportunities such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and college readiness resources. Understanding how these opportunities can be improved or expanded to better serve immigrant students is crucial for enabling their academic success and integration into the higher education landscape. Additionally, I am interested in examining educational equity and culturally sustaining pedagogies that could enhance the educational experiences of multilingual learners. Overall, I aim to pursue impactful research that fosters equitable educational practices and policies for students from historically marginalized backgrounds.

Personal Interests: Quality family time is one of my biggest priorities! I love

spending time with my husband and our four children. I love being the biggest cheerleader and number one fan at my oldest daughter’s soccer tournaments and at my younger daughter’s Baile Folklórico performances. On weekends, we gather with family to play lotería and enjoy my husband's popular Nayarit-style ceviche or aguachile, along with my mother's famous Morisqueta, an authentic dish from our hometown of Apatzingán, Michoacán, Mexico. I genuinely cherish embracing our culture through family gatherings, sports, dance, and, of course, delicious food. Additionally, I love traveling, exploring new places, hanging out with friends, trying different restaurants, going on hikes, visiting the beach and different parks, and doing arts and crafts with my kids.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

GRAD STUDENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

GRADUATES SUMMER 2026

MAHADEVAN IYER (COHORT 9)

Hometown: Saratoga, CA Undergraduate: BA in Technology | Mechanical Engineering & Automation, Indian Institute of Technology Graduate: MS in Mechanical Engineering & Automation, USC - Columbia

issertation Research: Special Education Teachers Perceptions of GenAI For Creating Individualized Lesson Plans.

Dissertation Committees: [Chair] Dr. Lisa Simpson Dr. Sudha Krishnan & Dr. Kalpana Galagali

PREETI JHA (COHORT 10) Hometown: San Jose, California Undergraduate: Bachelors in Education, Banaras Hindu University, India Graduate: MA in Emancipatory Leadership, San Jose State

issertation Research: Vision with Grace: Intersectionality of Education and Spirituality.

Dissertation Committees: [Chair] Dr. Rebeca Burciaga Dr. Lara Ervin-Kassab & Dr. Pedro A. Cuevas

issertation Research: From Classroom to Cyberspace: Developing Cybersecurity and AI Risk Preparedness.

Dissertation Committees: [Chair] Dr. Melody Moh Dr. Ferdinand Rivera & Dr. Selvarajan Thirumalai Thattai

Newsletter

Fall 2026

AWARDEES

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

DORIS PRINCE

ABOUT US

The Doris F. Prince Scholarship for Educational Leadership has been established to encourage women to become public school administrators.

The foundation, established in memory of longtime Bay Area educator Doris Prince, ‘54 MA Social Science, annually recognizes school leaders in the region. The scholarship supports women education leaders who care curretnly enrolled in SJSU master’s and doctoral programs in educational leadership. https://blogs.sjsu.edu/newsroom/2023/2023-doris-prince-scholars-in-their-own-words/

AWARDEES

FALL 2026

ALEJANDRA TAPIA CRUZ (COHORT 13) Hometown: Rubidoux/Moreno Valley, CA Undergraduate: BA, English, CSU-San Bernardino Graduate: MA, Education, CSU-San Bernardino

DAISY MEZA (COHORT 13) Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts in Collaborative Health and Human Services from California State University of Monterey Bay Graduate: Master of Arts in Education from California State University of Monterey Bay

esearch Interests: My research interests include multilingual learners, first-generation students, bilingual education programs, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Personal Interests: I love spending time with my family! I enjoy exploring new places through travel.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

AWARDEES

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

LATOYA RAMSEY (COHORT 13) Hometown: Sacramento, CA Undergraduate: Bachelors/Psychology/Sacramento State Graduate: Masters/Social Work/University of Southern California

esearch Interests: Disparities/barriers on academic success in black and brown students.

Personal Interests: I love documentaries, learning, and the beach.

VERNESHA THOMAS (COHORT 13) Hometown:Northridge, CA Undergraduate: B.A. | Psychology | California State University, Northridge Graduate: M.B.A. | Business Administration | University of Phoenix

WHY IT MATTERS “We need to support our women education leaders. Our SJSU Ed.D. Program is home to more than 100 pre-kindergarten through grade 12, community college, and higher ed leaders. About 68% of this total are women leaders, amd each new cohort has more female than male leaders...What I like about the Doris Prince Scholarship is its intentional celebration of their presence in our SJSU Ed.D. community and especially thier important role in transforming our communities with their equity and justicedriven research initiatives.” -Ferdie Rivera, Program Director of SJSU’s Ed.D. Leadership Doctoral Program

SECTION

04 ACHIEVEMENTS

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

CORE FACULTY CONGRATULATIONS

BRENT DUCKOR

PUBLICATION

SEPTEMBER 15, 2026

Duckor, B., & Holmberg, C. (2026). AI and Deeper Learning: Promises, Paradoxes and Evolving Practices. Boston, MA: Harvard Education Press.

JASON LAKER

PRESENTATION JUNE 27, 2026

I delivered the Closing Keynote Address at the American Men’s Studies Association conference in Cleveland, Ohio in June. https://cglink.me/2cS/r2280248

JULY 9, 2026

I presented a workshop entitled, “Guy Things: Gender, Men, and Masculinities” at the University of Prishtina’s (Kosovo) Internaitonal Summer University.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

KRITHIKA JAGANNATH

PUBLICATION

APRIL 3, 2026

Tekinbaş, K. S., Grace, T., Jagannath, K., & Larson, I. (2026). Designing Care (Full) Online Play Communities for Youth. Youth Well-Being by Design: Integrating Research, Critical Perspectives, and Innovation, 225. in James, C., & Ito, M. (Eds.). (2026). Youth Well-Being by Design: Integrating Research, Critical Perspectives, and Innovation. MIT Press.

LUIS POZA

PUBLICATION

JUNE 1, 2026

Poza, L. E., Ribay, K., & Visintainer, T. (2026). Critical Language Awareness and Educational Dignity in Science Teacher Preparation. Journal of Research in Science Teaching. 63(4-5). 449-469.

JUNE 1, 2026

Fregoso Bailón, R. O., & Poza, L. E. (2026). Decolonial Studies as Framing Epistemic Justice in Bilingual Education. Bilingual Reserach Journal, 1-14. DOI: 10.1080/15235882.2026.2629981

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

NIKOS MOURTOS

PUBLICATION

AUGUST 25, 2026

Nance, C. & Mourtos, N. J. (2026, August 25). Universal Design for Learning in California Community Colleges: A Literature Review. Available online at the Athens Journal of Education.

JANUARY 7, 2026

Mourtos, N. J. (2026). Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: A Tango - How the Tenets of the Most Complex Dance in the World Can Inspire A Well-Danced Teaching and Learning Experience Between You and Your Students! Amazon. ISBN: 9798242299283. [San Jose State University]

DECEMBER 18, 2025

Zartoshty, P., Danzig, A., & Mourtos, N. J. (2025). Internationalization: Navigating Efforts Within a Systems Framework. Chapter 7 in Trends, Internationalization, and Regional Developments in Higher Education. Springer Nature.

NOVEMBER 13, 2025

Zartoshty, P., Mourtos, N. J. & Chierichetti, M. (2025, November). Developing a Global Ethos on Campus - a Systems Perspective. Athens Journal of Education, 12(4), 591-614.

NOVEMBER 13, 2025

Chierichetti, M., Mourtos, N. J. & Zartoshty, P. (2025, November). Developing Students as Global Citizens Through Curriculum Design and Extracurricular Activities. Athens Journal of Education, 12(4), 615-638.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

VENEICE GUILLORY-LACY

PUBLICATION

JUNE 18, 2026

Guillory-Lacy, V. (2026). Dear HIgher Education, I am Still Learning to Belong Here. Dear Higher Education: Letters from the Social Justice Mountain. [Special Issue]. University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing. https://pubs.lib.umn.edu/index.php/dhe/article/view/7490/4297

STUDENT CONGRATULATIONS

ERICA RICH (COHORT 12)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

JULY 1, 2026

Appointed as Elementary Vice Principal in Pleasanton Unified School District.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

ISABEL RANGEL (COHORT 12)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

AUGUST 1, 2026

I have been recently promoted to Lead Teacher, Facilities Manager, and Site Coordinator. [Learning Pathways: Preschool and Kindergarten Prep]

JOEL MORALES (COHORT 12)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

JULY 1, 2026

I’m excited to share that I’ve stepped into a new role as Executive Director of Undergraduate Advising and Success at San José State University. I’ll be working alongside the Interim AVP of Undergraduate Success and a wonderful team within Undergraduate Advising and Success to help shape the direction of academic advising and what student success through advising looks like across SJSU.

JUAN HUERTA VILLICANA (COHORT 13)

FEBRUARY 26, 2026

2026 Emancipation Through Education Award Faculty Association of California Community Colleges

AWARD/HONOR

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

JOANNA MESSER (COHORT 12)

PUBLICATION

JUNE 11, 2026

Messer, J. L. (in press). Big Library Feelings: Moving the Library Back Home. In K. Casey and J. Pinkley (Eds.), The Community College Library: Administrative and Leadership. ACRL Editions. [ACRL Editions, an imprint of the American Library Association]

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT JULY 29, 2026

Joanna Messer (Ed.D. Cohort 12) was elected as the new Vice President/President-Elect of the California Community Colleges Council of Chief Librarians, after completing her first term as the Southwest Bay regional representative on the Board of Directors. She will serve a two-year term in this role before assuming the role as President. The purpose of the CCC Council of Chief Librarians is to represent, promote and advance libraries in public California community college education; to provide a vehicle for communication, discussion and collaboration among libraries; to provide opportunities for professional development, training and leadership development for library leaders and other librarians; and to support data collection, analysis and dissemination for the purpose of good public policy development.

LINDSAY DEVAURS (COHORT 12)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

MAY 1, 2026

Poster presentation at Western Region meeting of American Association of Agriculture Educators, Honolulu, Hi, Sept 21-24, 2026 College of Agriculture Outstanding Faculty Award, 2025-2026 Academic Year Appointment to role as Assistant Professor, Agriculture Science, Chico State University

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

MARYSOL GOMEZ (COHORT 11)

PRESENTATION

MAY 12, 2026

In collaboration with the Teens Rise Foundation and Alliance Healthcare Foundation, Ms. Marysol Gomez and her AVID students led a research project on cell phone use and academic/social-emotional well-being of teens. Using quantitative and qualitative questions, they surveyed 100 participants to document student voices on the impact of cell phones on their lives. A presentation and findings were shared via a teacher and student focused panel organized by the County of San Diego.

MILEIDY MALDONADO COHORT 12)

AWARD/HONOR

JUNE 1, 2026

Dr. Hector and Catalina Garcia Graduate Endowed Scholarship 2026-2027 [San José State University] 2026 National Association of Lambda Alumnae (NALA) Graduate Scholarship

MAIRE MCDERMID (COHORT 13)

AWARD/HONOR

MAY 16, 2026

Principal of the Year, Salinas City Elementary School District

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

NHA-NGHI NGUYEN (COHORT 11)

PRESENTATION

OCTOBER 29, 2026

Presented at the CPED Conference 2026 focusing on my research study, Generational Perspectives on Career Advancement and Barriers Among Vietnamese American Women in Higher Education Leadership. This research addresses the “high-attainment, low-authority paradox” facing Vietnamese American women in higher education, where advanced academic credentials fail to translate into senior leadership roles. Utilizing a scholar-practitioner perspective that combines institutional knowledge with cultural intimacy, the study looks beyond basic statistical disparities to uncover the systemic root causes of this leaky pipeline, ultimately aiming to develop actionable, culturally grounded leadership strategies that challenge traditional Eurocentric models. Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Conference 2026

AWARD/HONOR AUGUST 29, 2026

Silicon Valley Lions Open Doors Lions - Charter Member [Silicon Valley Lions Open Doors Lions International]

RAFAEL ZAVALA (COHORT 5)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

JULY 1, 2026

I was selected to be the principal at P.A. Walsh in the Morgan Hill Unified School District.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

VANNESSA HULME SILBERMANN (C 12)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

JULY 27, 2026

VanNessa recently joined the Hammer Theatre Center, San José State University’s performing arts venue located adjacent to the university’s downtown San José campus. In her new role as Patron Services Manager, she supports the operations and administration of the theatre, bringing her extensive background in arts education, nonprofit leadership, and theatre to the position. The role allows VanNessa to continue working at the intersection of the arts, education, and organizational leadership.

PUBLICATION JUNE 25, 2026

Hulme Silbermann, V. (2026). Uterine Removal and the Psycho-Social Decay of Feminist Agency. Journal of Imaginary Research, 11, 29-30. https://journalofimaginaryresearch.home.blog/2026/06/25/journal-ofimaginary-research-volume-eleven-2026/ Published in the Journal of Imaginary Research, a creative scholarly journal in which researchers use fictional research abstracts to explore real experiences, questions, and tensions through imaginative inquiry. Imaginary research creates space for scholars to move beyond the constraints of conventional academic writing, using creativity and speculation as tools for reflection, meaning-making, and new ways of understanding lived experience. Written from an autobiographical foundation, “Uterine Removal and the Psycho-Social Decay of Feminist Agency” transforms the author’s experience of hysterectomy into an imagined psychoanalytic study exploring bodily autonomy, feminist identity, embodied memory, and the perceived contraction of personal and political agency following uterine removal.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

ZOE GIATIS (COHORT 11)

PRESENTATION

SEPTEMBER 19, 2026

Preliminary Dissertation Research Poster Presentation (Beyond Deficit Models) at 7th Annual Stanford Neurodiversity Summit (September 2026) Preliminary Dissertation Research (Beyond Deficit Models); 2026 CPED Convening, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi (October 2026)

ALUMNI CONGRATULATIONS

CARRIE HOLMBERG (COHORT 1)

PUBLICATION

AUGUST 15, 2026

Duckor, B., Holmberg, C., & Ravitz, J. (2026). From AI Adoption to Pedagogical Practice: A Learning-Centered Framework for Evaluating AI Policy in K-12 Education (IAEP White Paper No. 2026-01). Center for Innovation in Applied Education Policy (IAEP), San José State University. https://www.sjsu.edu/iaepcenter/docs/IAEP%20White%20Paper_From%20 Policy%20to%20Pedagogy_August%202026%20rev%202.pdf

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

KEVIN WAN (COHORT 4)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

JULY 15, 2026

High School Principal at School of the Nations in Brasília, Brazil

RYAN CARTER (COHORT 7)

PUBLICATION

AUGUST 11, 2026

Research co-authored by Dr. Ryan Carter, Dr. Lorri Capizzi, and Dr. Brent Duckor was recently published in The Journal of School-Based Counseling Policy & Evaluation. Carter, R. J., Capizzi, L. M., & Duckor, B. (2026). Measuring High School Counselor Beliefs on the Importance of MTMDSS Universal Supports Since Covid-19. Journal of School-Based Counseling Policy & Evaluation, 8(1), 1-35. https://journal.libraries.wm.edu/jscpe/article/view/351/1418

Newsletter

Fall 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

TRI NGUYEN (COHORT 4)

PRESENTATION

FEBRUARY 5, 2027

Will present at the 2027 National Principals Conference Topic of Presentation: Intentional & Purposeful Play, Structuring School Through the Lens of Active Engagement, Adult Connections, and School Belonging.

TAUNYA JACO (COHORT 5)

PROMOTION / APPOINTMENT

SPETEMBER 8, 2026

Founded the Regent Prep Academy, an innovative, Christ-centered school serving scholars in grades 6-12. Regent reimagines education through an online-first, hybrid model that combines rigorous academics, project-based learning, cuturally relevant education, and individualized Talent Pathways in athletics, arts, entrepreneurship, and leadership. [Durham, NC | https://www.regentprepacademy.org/]

SECTION

05 Ed.D. STUDENT ORGANIZATION

Newsletter

Fall 2026

STUDENT ORGANIZATION

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Ed student ed.d. association

ABOUT US

Ed.D. Student Association (EdDSA) seeks to cultivate an inclusive, collaborative community grounded in equity, mentorship, and advocacy.

Together, the organization aims to strengthen doctoral student voice, support professional and personal growth, and prepare trasnformative leaders to advance educational justice.

MEET OUR

BOARD OF EXECUTIVES

ERIC GARCIA (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Hybrid President I am honored to serve as the President of our newly recognized student organization, the Ed. D Student Association (EdDSA). We are proud to have built it together from the ground up. My vision is to add to the amazing culture already present within the SJSU Ed.D. program. I truly believe that normalizing shared experiences and fostering a sense of community are essential for student success. Through EdDSA, our collective goal is to launch activities that enhance the student journey, inspire future applicants, and bridge connections with our alumni in the field. Together, we are excited to strengthen our professional bonds and support one another through the rigors of doctoral life. Ultimately, I want to do Educational Leadership things with my Educational Leadership colleagues!

LYSSA GOMEZ (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Online Vice President

Newsletter

Fall 2026

STUDENT ORGANIZATION

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

TIANA LE Ed.D. Program Analyst Staff Advisor As the Ed.D. Program Analyst and advisor to the organization, I joined to support students and contribute to a positive and inclusive student experience at SJSU. In this role, I look forward to collaborating with students to plan events and gatherings that strengthen student community and culture. I also hope to support fundraising efforts that help make activities and opportunities more accessible to students. My goal is to help create a welcoming, engaging, and supportive experience for all Ed.D. students.

YESENIA VARGAS NAVARRO (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Online Secretary & Social Media Co-Chair I’m excited to serve as the Secretary and Social Media Co-Chair for EDDSA! As a firstgeneration Latina pursuing higher education, it was important for me to be part of a community of educators committed to empowering and uplifting the voices and experiences of first-generation students. In my role, I hope to create and capture opportunities for mentorship and community. My vision for EDDSA is to create a space where students who are navigating a doctoral journey as the first in their families feel seen, supported, and empowered.

LILIANA FUERTE CALDERON (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Online Social Media Co-Chair

Newsletter

Fall 2026

STUDENT ORGANIZATION

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

GREG GARCIA (COHORT 10) Cohort 11, Hybrid Cohort Representative I joined EDDSA because none of us are finishing this Ed.D. alone. This program is about more than academic achievement. We have the opportunity to model the kinds of educational leaders we already are and the kinds we aspire to be. Cultivating belonging and connection across cohorts adds value to the Ed.D. program experience by building strong systems of support to help everyone throughout the program, as well as lasting professional relationships for life. I'm happy to do my part to communicate with the hybrid group from Cohort 11 to share updates and encourage participation.

LENA JAYADEV (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Hybrid Curriculum and Instruction Chair I joined the EDDSA Executive Board to build an empowering space for doctoral candidates who love teaching, classroom practice, and curriculum design. As Curriculum & Instruction Chair, my role is dedicated to supporting educators who want to stay centered in learning architecture, university teaching, and scholarly publishing. My goal this year is to create tangible pathways, including co-writing research, pedagogical workshops, and connections with higher education teaching, so our cohort can translate their doctoral work directly into meaningful instructional impact.

MARTHA BEJAR (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Online Student Development Chair I joined the SJSU Ed.D. Student Association (EDDSA) because meaningful educational change requires leaders who reflect the racial, cultural, and linguistic diversity of the students and communities they serve. As the district’s only Latina bilingual assistant principal, I was proud to represent the students and families I served; however, my experience exposed systemic underrepresentation and structural barriers limiting historically marginalized communities’ access to educational leadership. Through Student Development, I move doctoral learning beyond the classroom—connecting students with mentorship, professional networks, and leadership experiences that translate theory into action. My vision is to cultivate diverse, equity-centered leaders prepared to transform educational systems and create lasting community impact.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

STUDENT ORGANIZATION

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

HONG HA HOANG (COHORT 12) Cohort 12, Hybrid Student Advocacy Chair Hong Ha Hoang is a member of SJSU’s Ed.D. Cohort 12 and serves as an EdDSA Student Advocacy Chair. As a first-generation college graduate, she joined the organization to help build a supportive community where doctoral students feel connected, heard, and encouraged. In her role, she hopes to elevate student concerns, advocate for resources and support, and strengthen connections across cohorts. Her goal is to ensure student voices help shape the organization’s priorities and make the doctoral journey more manageable as students balance coursework, careers, family, and community commitments.

PRISCILLA LUNA MEDINA (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Online Student Engagement Co-Chair Priscilla Luna is a General Education teacher and a doctoral student in the Educational Leadership Doctoral Program at San Jose State University. Driven by a deep commitment to care ethics, Priscilla focuses on fostering a sense of belonging for all students within the school community. Her upcoming research explores the intersection of art integration and its direct impact on shaping classroom culture. Through her academic and professional work, Priscilla aims to develop inclusive educational environments where students feel valued, connected, and inspired to learn. Priscilla is a pet lover, is artistic, and has recently opened her cinnamon roll cottage bakery, Cinnamoon.

ANTARA KSHETTRY (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Online Student Engagement Co-Chair My name is Antara, and I am part of Cohort 13. I joined the Ed.D Student Organization to be involved and to engage other students within and beyond the major, and to learn about education and its impact across different tiers of society. As Student-Engagement Co-Chair, I hope to organize events with different areas of the student body and different education departments to bring the community together and develop interest in education and what it has to offer.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

STUDENT ORGANIZATION

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

AMANDA OLIVAS (COHORT 10) Cohort 11, Online Alumni Relations Officer Amanda Olivas is a first-generation Latina doctoral candidate in Cohort 11 of San José State University’s online Ed.D. program, based in Long Beach, California. As a higher education professional and dedicated advocate for educational leadership, mentorship, and community engagement, Amanda joined the organization to foster meaningful connections among fellow scholar-practitioners, cultivate collaborative relationships, and contribute to a supportive community that empowers doctoral students throughout their academic and professional journeys. As Alumni Relations Officer, Amanda is committed to establishing a sustainable alumni engagement framework that strengthens relationships between current doctoral students and Ed.D. graduates. Drawing upon her professional experience and passion for cultivating inclusive communities, she seeks to create meaningful opportunities for mentorship, professional networking, knowledge sharing, and continued engagement beyond graduation. Her vision is to build a strong and interconnected alumni community that recognizes the accomplishments of Ed.D. graduates, fosters a lasting sense of belonging, and creates pathways for collaboration and leadership development for future generations of scholar-practitioners.

ANDREA BERTERO (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Hybrid Merchandise & Design Chair

RONALD TOWN (COHORT 13) Cohort 13, Hybrid Treasurer Ronald has worked in public education for 19 years--11 as a classroom teacher, 2 as an Assistant Principal, and 6 as a Principal. He holds a B.A. in Statistics and Secondary Education from Columbia University, a Master of Education and Teacher Leadership from Elmhurst College, and a Master of Education from REACH Institute of School Leadership. Ronald is excited to be a part of Ed. DSA because he believes doctoral students have a huge opportunity to come together to support one another's research and practice, and mentor the next generation of young educators. In his spare time, Ronald enjoys being with family and friends, exploring new spots in the Bay Area, outdoor workouts, coffee, and wine.

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06 Ed.D. EVENTS

Newsletter

Fall 2026

EVENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Ed ed.d. EVENTS 2026 CPED CONVENING CORPUS-CHRISTI, TEXAS

ABOUT US

OCTOBER 27 - 30, 2026

2026 Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) Convening, hosted by Texas A&M University-

Corpus Christi. This year’s theme “El Futuro Tiene Memoria (The Future Has Memory): Honoring the Past to Move the EdD Forward with Purpose”, brings together scholar-practitoners and educational leaders from across the nation. Attendees will engage in collaborative workshops, share dissertation-in practice research, and discuss innovative approaches to transforming doctoral education. We look forward to representing SJSU, connecting with member institutions, and bringing back fresh insights to strengthen our Ed.D. program!

Newsletter

Fall 2026

EVENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

LUNCH AND ROCK CLIMBING SH431 & SRAC CLIMBING WALL

ABOUT US

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2026

Ed.D. Community in Action!! Thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday, Oct 10 for our Ed.D.

Leadership Lunch & Rock Climbing Open House. We had a great turnout - our community gathered in SH 431 to connect, socialize, and enjoy food before heading over to SRAC Climbing Wall. Everyone got to test their skills on the wall with guidance from SRAC staffs (shout out to them!). It was a fantasic afternoon of building connection and trying out something new.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

EVENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Ed.D LUNCHEON SWEENEY HALL, SJSU

ABOUT US

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2026 Connecting Over Lunch!! on Saturday, Aug 15, the SJSU Ed.D. community gathered for our annual

Luncheon! Students, faculty, and alumni came together to connect over lunch, share updates on ongoing dissertation research, and celebrate the accomplishments of our educational leadership community. The event provided a warm space for reflection, networking, and kicking off the upcoming academic year with renewed energy and purpose. Thank you everyone who joined us and helped make the luncheon such a wonderful success.

Newsletter EVENTS

Fall 2026 Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

SUMMER’26 GLOBAL TRIP VIETNAM & THAILAND

ABOUT US

JUNE 26 - JULY 15, 2026 During the 2-week trip, students explored education and leadership in Vietnam and Thailand to learn and

deepen their understanding of systems, social justice, equity, and leadership. Students engaged with elementary through college educators, visited a nonprofit organization, and immersed themselves in the local communities while experiencing the history and culture of Southeast Asia.

Newsletter

Fall 2026

EVENTS

Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

COHORT 13 STUDENT ORIENTATION SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY

ABOUT US

SATURDAY, MAY 16, 2026

Welcome Cohort 13: Ed.D. Student Orientation. We are thrilled to officially welcome Cohort 13 to the San

Jose State University Educational Leadership Program! Our newest doctoral students gathered at Sweeney Hall for an engaging orientation session designed to launch their journey in the program. The event provided Cohort 13 candidates the opportunity to meet fellow cohort members, connect with faculty, and build community as they embark on this trasnformative academic experience together. We look forward to supporting Cohort 13 as they begin their coursework and leadership journey!

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Ed.D. ALUMNI NETWORK’S MESSAGE

Newsletter ALUMNI NETWORK’S MESSAGE

Fall 2026 Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

THE MESSAGE

DEAR SAN JOSEÉ STATE UNIVERSITY Ed.D. ALUMNI, We are writing to formally announce an upcoming leadership transition within the SJSU Ed.D. Alumni Network. As our community continues to expand, we are implementing structural changes to ensure the network remains a robust, influential, and supportive resource for all doctoral graduates. To support this new chapter, the Ed.D. Alumni Network Leadership Board is formally inviting new participants to join our leadership team. We are seeking dedicated alumni who are passionate about driving meaningful engagement, fostering professional development, and expanding networking and mentorship opportunities across our cohort communities. Serving on the Leadership Board offers a distinct opportunity to shape the future of our alumni network, collaborate with fellow educational leaders, and maintain a strong connection to San José State University. If you are interested in contributing your expertise or would like to learn more about the open leadership positions, please contact the Ed.D. Office for contact information. We look forward to embarking on this next phase of development with your leadership and collaboration.

Sincerely, The SJSU Ed.D. Alumni Network Leadership Board

NEWSLETTER SAN JOSÉ STATE UNIVERSITY FALL 2026

FALL 2026 RISING Ed.D. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

One Washington Sq. San José, CA 95192-0064 (408) 924-4098 edd-leadership@sjsu.edu https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/