Rising Fall 2025 (Final Copy)

SJSU

FALL 2025

EdD Educational Leadership Program

RISING NEWSLETTER

New Students from Cohort 12 (Ed.D.. ‘28)

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Director's Message

03

Introducing Our New Ed.D. Program Analyst: Tiana Le

04

Profile of Published SJSU Dissertations 2017-2025

05

New EdD Students: Cohort 12

07 Faculty Achievements

34

Student Achievements

37

Alumni Achievements

45

Spring 2025 Commencement Pictures

46

Summer Orientation for New Ed.D. Students

47

Fall 2025 Gathering

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

49

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

DIRECTOR‘S MESSAGE

This past Summer 2025, an amazing group of 56 current and future leaders joined our Ed.D. Program: 27 work in PK-12 settings and 29 in community colleges and higher education institutions in California. I invite you to check out their individual profiles to learn more about them in the next few pages of this newsletter. When I interviewed them as part of the admissions process, they all shared the same passion and commitment to transform places where they work for the better. I am looking forward to getting to know them and to learn from them what and how it means to be socially responsible researchers and change makers. By the way, given the size of this new cohort, we divided them into three smaller communities, where each community does not exceed 20 students, in order to ensure that they all enjoy the intimacy of learning from each other in their small groups.

One other information that I hope you will find interesting to know are the dissertation research profiles of our students who completed our program between 2017 and 2025. There is no intention to establish inferences from the data; just information to share with you and your colleagues who might be interested in pursuing our leadership doctoral program.

This newsletter includes information about the wonderful achievements of some of our current students and alumni and Core Faculty. I'm also happy to introduce Tiana Le, our program analyst, who joined us in February 2025. Tiana and I work closely together on all aspects of managing the program, so please don't hesitate to reach out to her for questions.

The rest of the pages share pictures from our Spring 2026 Commencement, in-person orientation for some of our new students from Cohort 12 in early June of this year, and the first Fall 2025 Ed.D. community gathering that provided core faculty and current students from all three current cohorts with lots of fun to enjoy some good food and time together.

Ferdie Rivera Ed.D. Program Director

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

ANNOUNCEMENT Welcome Tiana Le! Role: Program Analyst Joined: Spring 2025 Hometown: San Jose, California Fun Fact: Lived in Portland, Oregon, before returning home to be closer to family.

Outside of Work: Enjoys walking her dog Pepe, playing guitar, and strength training.

Favorite Travel Spots: Vietnam · Mexico · Bolivia · Poland Tiana Le joins the EdD Educational Leadership Program as our new Program Analyst, bringing strong technical, analytical, and operational expertise to the Lurie College of Education. In her role, she supports program operations, data management, budget coordination, and communication across faculty, students, and leadership to ensure seamless day-to-day functioning.

Before joining SJSU, Tiana worked across fast-paced technology and education environments, where she specialized in data analysis, executive escalation management, and cross-functional collaboration with engineering teams. She has supported projects ranging from Google Maps and Google Earth to emerging startup SaaS products in the health and fitness industry.

We’re thrilled to welcome Tiana Le to the Connie L. Lurie College of Education — please join us in extending a warm welcome!

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

PROFILE OF PUBLISHED SJSU DISSERTATIONS 2017-2025

(n = 118 published)

Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks Used

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

PROFILE OF PUBLISHED SJSU DISSERTATIONS 2017-2025

Research Foci

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

INTRODUCING COHORT 12!

Blanca Moncada Hometown: Manteca, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Ethnic Studies and Psychology, Santa Clara University Graduate degree: M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs, University of San Francisco Research Interests: Understanding, centering, and uplifting the experiences of Central American, South American, and Caribbean Latiné identifying students with a focus on sense of belonging and identity formation at public Hispanic Serving Institutions.

Personal Interests: Exercising, self-improvement, spending time with family and friends.

Carlos Magallanez Jr. Hometown: Gilroy, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Collaborative Health and Human Services, California State University, Monterey Bay Graduate degree: M.S.W. in Social Work, California State University, Monterey Bay Research Interests: Identifying and cultivating areas that enhance student life experiences by addressing individual needs to create more inclusive and supportive educational environments.

Personal Interests: Exercising, selfimprovement, family and friends.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Carol-Lynn Perez Hometown: San Jose, California

Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Communication Studies, San Jose State University Graduate degree: M.A. in Communication Studies, San Jose State University Research Interests: Exploring how Artificial Intelligence technologies can address educational and structural inequalities, how instructors can guide students in using these tools, and how to prepare students to be wellbalanced and productive members of society.

Personal Interests: Traveling, weightlifting, hiking, gardening, pottery, metalsmithing, painting, reading, spending time with family and friends, and being the best possible aunt.

Chris Chavez Hometown: Saratoga, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in History, University of Michigan Graduate degree: M.S. in Higher Education, Drexel University Research Interests: Academic and success coaching—helping students develop executive function and study skills to promote equity, confidence, and selfagency.

Personal Interests: Working out, lifting weights, running, and watching sports (U of M, 49ers, Sharks, Warriors, Giants, F1).

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Crystal Murguia Hometown: Los Angeles, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Sociology and Ethnic Studies, University of La Verne Graduate degree: M.A. in College Counseling and Student Development, Azusa Pacific University Research Interests: First-generation and limited-income college students (FGLI), students on academic notice, and male identity development among FGLI students and students of color.

Personal Interests: Hiking, audiobooks, podcasts, family time, camping, and traveling.

Cynthia Huang Hometown: Sunnyvale, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Adult Education, East Bay University Graduate degree: M.S. in Online Teaching and Learning, East Bay University Research Interests: Neurodiversity in teachers and staff, social-emotional learning for students and adults, and leadership.

Personal Interests: Cooking, music, and gardening.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Dacia Cassara Connell Hometown: Newport Beach, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Psychology, Vanguard University Graduate degree: M.S. in Educational Counseling, National University Research Interests: Learner-centered leadership and the integration of AI. Personal Interests: Cooking and travel.

Daisy Meza Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Collaborative Health and Human Services, CSU Monterey Bay Graduate degree: M.A. in Education, CSU Monterey Bay Research Interests: Multilingual learners, first-generation students, bilingual education, and challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Personal Interests: Spending time with family and traveling.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 David Poirier Hometown: Mountain View, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Business: Human Resources, San Jose State University Graduate degree: MBA, San Jose State University Research Interests: Mentorship in education, workforce training applications in academia, and leadership development.

Personal Interests: Creative writing, fitness/outdoors, collecting medieval weapons, history, and restaurant exploration.

Edith Passi

Hometown: Nu’uuli, American Samoa Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Business Management, Azusa Pacific University Graduate degree: M.S. in Organizational Leadership, Los Angeles Pacific University Research Interests: Educational equity with a specific focus on Polynesians in higher education.

Personal Interests: Anything familycentered.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Erica Rich Hometown: Newark, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Liberal Studies (Elementary Education), CSU Sacramento Graduate degree: M.Ed. in Curriculum, CSU East Bay Research Interests: Supporting diverse elementary learners and teachers in public schools.

Erika Alvarez Hometown: Bakersfield, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Environmental Resource Management, CSU Bakersfield Graduate degree: M.A. in Counseling and Guidance, San Jose State University Research Interests: Academic advisor preparation, high-impact practices for nontraditional students, predictive analytics for early intervention, and student-centered policy.

Personal Interests: Hiking, watching sports, and going to the cinema.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Gauri Sehgal Hometown: Bay Area, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Psychology with a Biological Emphasis, University of California, Davis Graduate degree: M.A. in Education, University of California, Davis Research Interests: Supportive classroom experiences for students and educators.

Personal Interests: Exercise, fashion, cooking, and baking.

Guillermo Metelin Bock Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Psychology, CSU Monterey Bay Graduate degree: M.A. in Education, School Psychology, Alliant International University Research Interests: Institutional support systems for first-gen, low-income, undocumented, and underrepresented students; Dream Centers; TRIO; and equitydriven initiatives.

Personal Interests: Family trips to Mexico, exploring heritage, mariachi music, weightlifting, and cooking carne asada.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Haydee Morfin Hometown: Gilroy, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Family and Consumer Sciences with Child Development, CSU Long Beach Graduate degree: M.A. in Early Childhood Special Education, San Francisco State University Research Interests: Advocacy for Special Education students and equitable access to SPED resources.

Personal Interests: Traveling, trying new foods, spending time with friends and family, and DIY projects.

Heather Bonvechio Hometown: Mountain View, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Exercise Science & Sports Medicine, California Lutheran University Graduate degree: M.S. in Special Education & Education Specialist Credential, National University Research Interests: Strengthening relationships between administrators and special education staff and students.

Personal Interests: Spending time with husband and daughter, working out, learning about women’s health, and DIY projects.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Hong Ha Hoang Hometown: Seattle, Washington Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Neurobiology & Psychology with Minors in Bioethics & Humanities, University of Washington Graduate degree: M.Ed. in Education with Single Subject Credential (Math), Alliant International University Research Interests: Educational inequities in K–12, effects of school closures on marginalized communities, and improving school-family communication.

Personal Interests: Traveling, cooking, baking, fitness, movies, board games, and spending time with dog Baylee.

Isabel Rangel Hernandez Hometown: San Jose, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development, San Jose State University Graduate degree: M.A. in Higher Education Leadership (HELM), San Jose State University Research Interests: Undocumented and first-gen Latina student-parents, Chicana feminist epistemology, and community cultural wealth.

Personal Interests: Spending time with her son, cat, and dog; enjoying anime, Pokémon, and diverse music.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Jazmin Chilin Hometown: Gilroy, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in English, San Jose State University Graduate degree: M.A. in Teaching, San Jose State University Research Interests: Combating apathy in multilingual student engagement.

Personal Interests: Pilates, quality time with husband, cooking classes, and faith-based community work.

Jeremiah Lineberger Hometown: Chino Hills, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Communication Studies, San Jose State University Graduate degree: M.S. in Mass Communications, San Jose State University Research Interests: Alumni engagement and its impact on undergraduate student support and success.

Personal Interests: Running half marathons, attending community events, and spending time with family and friends.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Joanna Messer Hometown: Soquel, California Undergraduate degree: B.M. in Music Performance, Lawrence University Graduate degree: M.M. in Music Performance, Carnegie Mellon University; MLIS in Library & Information Studies, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee Research Interests: Textbook affordability, staff development in libraries, and equity in library spaces.

Personal Interests: Trivia games, flute performance, cooking, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Joel Morales

Hometown: Bakersfield, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Psychology, UC Santa Cruz Graduate degree: M.S. in Counseling, CSU Bakersfield Research Interests: Leadership pathways, AI in training and development, equity in higher education, and student retention.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Juan Ledesma Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Applied Physics, UC Santa Cruz Graduate degree: M.Ed. in Educational Administration, Grand Canyon University Research Interests: Equity in STEM, culturally responsive leadership, and professional development for multilingual education.

Personal Interests: Family time, sports, movies, travel, and cultural learning.

Kanika Sood Hometown: Punjab, India and the Bay Area, California Undergraduate degree: A.A. in Communication Studies, De Anza College; B.A. in Psychology, UC Riverside Graduate degree: M.Ed. in Educational Counseling, University of Southern California Research Interests: Supporting neurodivergent South Asian students and universal classroom design rooted in inclusion.

Personal Interests: Cooking, exploring new foods, nature, reading, and watching movies.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Kelsey Nyberg Hometown: Manteca, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Liberal Studies, CSU Stanislaus Graduate degree: M.Ed. in Education Administration, CSU Stanislaus Research Interests: Closing the achievement gap among minority and lowincome students.

Personal Interests: Thrifting, cooking, being outdoors, and adventuring.

Kimberly Gallow Hometown: Lafayette, Louisiana Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Business Administration, Northwestern State University Graduate degree: M.A. in Student Affairs in Higher Education, Northwestern State University Research Interests: Black feminism, organizational behavior, and college athletic administration.

Personal Interests: Family, sporting events, church, docuseries, networking, and personal development.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Kimberly McCullick Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Liberal Studies, CSU Monterey Bay Graduate degree: M.A. in Education (Administration and Supervision), San Jose State University Research Interests: Supporting Long-Term English Learners in math and supporting new principals in education leadership.

Personal Interests: Reading, hiking, backpacking, running, and triathlons with family.

Kira Lemons Hometown: San Jose, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in English, University of Mary Washington Graduate degree: M.A. in International Education Management, Middlebury Institute; M.A. in Higher Education Leadership, San Jose State University Research Interests: Increasing access to intercultural experiences for undergraduate students.

Personal Interests: Dungeons & Dragons, cosplay, and cinema.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Kristine Vasquez Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Liberal Studies, CSU Fresno Graduate degree: M.A. in Educational Leadership, San Jose State University Research Interests: Impact of teacher training on student learning.

Personal Interests: Traveling, spending time with family, and relaxing on the beach.

Lindsay Devaurs

Hometown: Bakersfield, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Agriculture Science, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Graduate degree: M.S. in Agriculture, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Research Interests: Agriculture teacher retention and burnout, especially among female teachers.

Personal Interests: Horses, dahlias, roses, ducks, and travel.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Mathew Stowe Hometown: Sacramento, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Sociology – Social Interaction, San Jose State University Graduate degree: M.A. in Educational Counseling, San Jose State University Research Interests: First-generation college students, college readiness, mentorship, advising, and global education models.

Personal Interests: Running, music, family, faith, and art.

Mileidy Maldonado Hometown: Los Angeles, California.

Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Sociology, University of California, Riverside.

Graduate degree: M.A. in Sociology, California State University, Northridge Research Interests: Educational trauma experienced by first-generation Latino/a/x students, systemic barriers within educational institutions, academic burnout, Latino/a/x parenthood in academia, and community care and healing in educational spaces.

Personal Interests: Taking pictures of nature, hiking, spending time with children, traveling, painting, dancing, and listening to podcasts.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Melinee Stewart Hometown: Richmond, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Health Science, CSU East Bay Graduate degree: M.A. in Education, Teacher Leadership, Dominican University Research Interests: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their effects on African American student behavior and academic progress.

Personal Interests: Traveling, working out, dining out, and parenting a teenager.

Mike “Spike” Osorio Hometown: Los Angeles, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Film & Digital Media, UC Santa Cruz Graduate degree: M.P.A., CSU East Bay Research Interests: First-generation and low-income students, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, educational equity, imposter syndrome, and generational trauma.

Personal Interests: Working out, punk/emo & trance music, rollercoasters, paddle boarding, and animals.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Nayelli Velazquez Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Early Childhood Education, Fresno Pacific University Graduate degree: M.A. in School Counseling, Fresno Pacific University Research Interests: Equality and fairness in student behavioral support.

Personal Interests: Hanging out with family.

Nicole Armstrong Hometown: Moreno Valley, California Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Business Administration, CSU East Bay Graduate degree: M.S. in Special Education; M.A. in STEM Education Research Interests: Equity and access in special education, bridging policy and practice, and enhancing inclusive education practices for students with disabilities.

Personal Interests: Spending time with family, traveling, cooking, movies, reading, painting, playing LEGO with her son, and caring for her Yorkie.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Olivia Hayes Hometown: Dinuba, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Mass Media Communications & Journalism, Fresno State University Graduate degree: M.S. in Higher Education Counseling & Student Affairs, Cal Poly State University Research Interests: Biracial/multiracial first-year student experience, identity development, and leadership personality typologies.

Personal Interests: Singing, dancing, theatre, swimming, and cooking.

Rachel Meyers

Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Education, CSU Monterey Bay Graduate degree: M.A. in Education, UC Santa Cruz Research Interests: Quality instruction, personalized learning, and private education.

Personal Interests: Family, running, and true crime.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Raina Benton Hometown: San Francisco, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development Graduate degree: M.A. in Social Justice & Urban Education Research Interests: School-to-prison pipeline, healing-centered engagement, culturally relevant pedagogy, discrimination in schools, and teacher diversity and retention.

Personal Interests: Writing, reading, movies, and music.

Selwan Amari Hometown: Fremont, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Sociology, University of California, Berkeley Graduate degree: M.A. in English & Comparative Literature, San Jose State University Research Interests: Diversity, equity, and inclusion; representation of underrepresented communities in higher education; and empowering practices in teaching, mentoring, and counseling.

Personal Interests: Enjoying coffee, Arabic music, literature, and poetry.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Shailendra Baghel Hometown: Fremont, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Business & Finance, Bhopal University Graduate degree: MBA in Accounting & Finance, Iowa University; M.A. in Accounting & Taxation, Indore University; J.D. from Indore University; DCA from Bhopal University; CPA (USA); FCA (India) Research Interests: Strategic use of AI in higher education management, leadership, and innovative teaching for underserved communities.

Personal Interests: Flying, playing cricket and golf, and cooking.

Shruthi Nadig Hometown: Bengaluru, India Undergraduate degree: B.B.M. in Finance, Bangalore University Graduate degree: M.P.A. in Public Policy & Organizational Development, University of New Mexico Research Interests: Professional development programs in higher education and effectiveness of peer mentoring for faculty and staff.

Personal Interests: Hiking, traveling, singing, and spending time with loved ones.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Sujana Mukund

Hometown: San Jose, California Undergraduate degree: B.E. in Electronics Engineering, Bangalore University Graduate degree: M.A. in Education, San Jose State University Research Interests: School safety and mental health of students and educators.

Personal Interests: Painting, mosaics, reading, and hiking.

Marcia Overturf

Hometown: Arvin, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Human Development, CSU East Bay Graduate degree: M.A. in Career Technical Education, CSU San Bernardino Research Interests: Inclusive workforce development in community colleges and equity for students with disabilities in CTE programs.

Personal Interests: Culinary arts, storytelling through food, leadership books, and family time exploring California.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Tina Raeder van Stirum Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Women’s Studies and Community Studies, University of California, Santa Cruz Graduate degree: M.S. in Science Education, Montana State University, Bozeman Research Interests: Creating wraparound supports for new teachers through equityfocused onboarding practices and relationship-based systems.

Personal Interests: Gardening, crafting, and playing tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs).

VanNessa Hulme Silbermann Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri / Los Angeles, California Undergraduate degree: B.M. in Voice Performance, Grand Canyon University Graduate degree: M.M. in Opera Performance, CSU Northridge Research Interests: Arts as a gateway to interdisciplinary learning, training future arts educators, rethinking SEL programs, and access/equity in private school education.

Personal Interests: Animal rescue, independent films, softball, sustainable gardening, meditation, cultural exploration through food, and coffee.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Victoria Veles Aguirre Hometown: San Jose, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Liberal Studies, Patten University Graduate degree: M.A. in Education (Curriculum & Instructional Design), San Jose State University Research Interests: Teacher retention, equity-driven sustainability practices, and their impact on student outcomes and instructional quality.

Personal Interests: Music, sports, wellness, and exploring family history and cultural identity.

Robert Cannon Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Economics, The College of William and Mary Graduate degree: M.A. in Educational Leadership, San Jose State University Research Interests: California public school districts’ use of continuous improvement in LCAP to enhance outcomes for all student groups.

Personal Interests: Spending time with family, traveling, staying informed, and lifelong learning.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Ileana Romero

Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara Graduate degree: M.Ed. in Special Education, Cal Poly Pomona Research Interests: Professional development for teachers of students with ADHD and co-teaching models in math.

Personal Interests: Walking in nature, biking, and kayaking.

Steve Duong Hometown: East Side San Jose, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Sociology, San Jose State University Graduate degree: M.A. in Higher Education Leadership, San Jose State University Research Interests: Higher education for incarcerated and system-impacted students, non-traditional learners, and fostering sense of belonging through Caring Campus initiatives.

Personal Interests: Spending time with his two kids, working out, collecting sneakers, and being a Lakers fan.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Dulce Carmona Hometown: Salinas, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Liberal Studies, CSU Monterey Bay Graduate degree: M.A. in Education (Educational Administration), CSU Monterey Bay Research Interests: Leadership in supporting equity-driven school improvement, teacher effectiveness, and belonging for all stakeholders.

Personal Interests: Reading, traveling, exploring new cultures, community engagement, mentoring first-gen students, and family time.

Xiomara Martinez

Hometown: San José, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Community Psychology, Palo Alto University Graduate degree: M.A. in Higher Education Leadership, San José State University Research Interests: Latinx support programs and first-year experience programs.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 Janelle-Victoria Cabanero Hometown: Daly City, California Undergraduate degree: B.A. in Kinesiology Graduate degree: M.A. in Special Education Research Interests: Student self-advocacy in IEPs, equitable participation for students with disabilities, and policy impacts on inclusive education.

Personal Interests: Traveling, creative planning/design, wellness, puzzles, and spending time with her dog.

Sarah Cravy

Hometown: Milpitas, California Undergraduate degree: B.Arch. in Architecture, University of Houston Graduate degree: M.B.A., Golden Gate University Research Interests: Teaching and learning in the field of architecture.

Personal Interests: Art, craft, and reading.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

CORE FACULTY AC H I E V E M E N T S Dr. Arnold Danzig Awards & Honors Book (Co-Editor & Chapter Author): Navigating Charter School Landscapes: Growth and Governance across California, Arizona, and Florida.

Emerald Publishing. Publication Date: December 8, 2025 (Available for order November 8, 2025) Description: This volume offers a balanced comparison between charter and traditional public schools, highlighting diverse stakeholder perspectives and systemic tensions. It provides insights into governance, equity, and the future of charter education — serving as an essential guide for educators, policymakers, and researchers.

Dr. Saili S. Kulkarni Book Publication Book: Addressing Racism and Ableism in the Classroom and Teacher Education: Case Studies of Special Education Teachers of Color https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003653783 Date: October 2025 Publisher: Routledge Description: Dr. Kulkarni’s newest publication with Routledge contributes to current scholarship in inclusive education and equity-focused special education practice.

FALL 2025

CORE FACULTY AC H I E V E M E N T S Dr. Allison Briceño Promotion & Publications Promoted to Full Professor, August 2025 Publications: Briceño et al. (2025). Translanguaginginformed beliefs and practices of SpanishEnglish middle school bilingual teachers upon completion of an online professional development. Linguistics and Education, 86.

DOI Rodriguez-Mojica & Briceño (2025). (Missed) Opportunities to build solidarity: A critical analysis of Spanish-English bilingual children’s books. Bilingual Research Journal, 48(2), 233–247. DOI Briceño (2025). Literacy leadership in support of equity. Journal of Reading Recovery, 24(2), 57–61.

Dr. Janet Y. Bang Journal Article & Book Chapter Publication and Conference Presentation Publications: Bang, J.Y., Mora, A., Munévar, M., Fernald, A., & Marchman, V. (2025). Time to talk: Multiple sources of variability in caregiver verbal engagement during everyday activities in English- and Spanish-speaking families in the U.S. Infancy.

Bang, J., & Feldman, H. (2025). Language development and communication disorders. In R. Kliegman & J.W. St. Geme III (Eds.), Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics (22nd ed., pp. 324–335).

Elsevier.

Conference Presentation: Exploring ways to examine natural expressive language for children with linguistically diverse backgrounds. Poster presented at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Washington, D.C. (Nov 2025).

FALL 2025

CORE FACULTY AC H I E V E M E N T S

Dr. Ferdie Rivera

Award Recipient of the 2025 SJSU Research and Innovation Scholarly Entrepreneurship.

This award is in recognition of my success in bringing in extramural funding to support my SJSU research activities over the last three years. I have secured 3 National Science Foundation grants in the last three years totaling more than $2M.

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

🏆 Awards and Honors Hong Ha Hoang – Cohort 12

Recipient of the 2025 Doris Prince Scholarship, recognizing academic excellence and leadership potential within the SJSU EdD Leadership Program

Melinee Stewart – Cohort 12

Earned the Working Women Scholarship Award from the National Coalition of One Hundred Black Women for $1,000.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

🏆 Awards & Honors Nha-Nghi Nguyen – Cohort 11

Awarded the Graduate Equity Fellowship Scholarship for the 2025–2026 academic year by the SJSU College of Graduate Studies.

The fellowship supports graduate students demonstrating academic excellence and financial need.

Kelly Marquez – Cohort 11

Awarded the Anna Lambourne Scholarship by the Phi Kappa Phi SJSU Chapter (April 2025).

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

🎤 Presentations & Speaking Engagements Greg Garcia - Cohort 11

Featured in an Education Insider interview (September 2025), where he shared insights on academic leadership and the future of peer tutoring.

🔗 Read the full interview

Melinee Stewart – Cohort 12

Led a professional development workshop titled “We Don’t Play About Learning: Centering Play & Projects in the Classroom” with Agency by Design Oakland (October 20, 2025). The interactive session explored how hands-on, student-driven experiences foster creativity, critical thinking, and deeper understanding.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

🎤 Presentations & Speaking Engagements Nha-Nghi Nguyen – Cohort 11

Guest panel speaker for “Women of Color in Corporate” at De Anza College (October 14, 2025), inspiring students to navigate leadership pathways and representation in corporate spaces.

Event details

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Kelly Marquez – Cohort 11

Presented at the Monterey Bay Area Math Project (MBAMP) Summer Institute (June 2025) on “Read, Talk, Solve: Turning Stories into Math Adventures”

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

🏛️ Promotions & Appointments Nha-Nghi Nguyen – Cohort 11

Joined the San José State University Chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success, an organization dedicated to fostering personal growth, leadership, and community impact.

Learn more about NSLS

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Hong Ha Hoang – Cohort 11

Joined the San José State University Chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success, an organization dedicated to fostering personal growth, leadership, and community impact.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

🌟 Community Leadership & Service Jeremiah Lineberger - Cohort 12

Recipient of the Emerging Nonprofit Leader Award presented by the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits (SVCN). Event: Be Our Guest — 18th Annual Nonprofit Impact Awards (October 24, 2025) This award honors his leadership and impact in advancing community engagement, family services, and equity through his work with the African American Community Service Agency.

Melinee Stewart – Cohort 12

Selected for the Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Cohort by the California Teachers Association (CTA), National Education Association (NEA), and Stanford National Board Resource Center (NBRC) — one of 60 educators chosen from 400 applicants pursuing National Board Teaching Certification.

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS 2025 Doris Prince Awards

Victoria Veles Aguirre Cohort 12

Janelle-Victoria Cabanero Cohort 12

Hong Ha Hong Cohort 12

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS 2025 Doris Prince Awards

Raina Benton Cohort 12

Mirel Mejia Cohort 11

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

🎓 ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS

FALL 2025

🏛️ Leadership & Appointments

Keri Toma Loehrer - Cohort 8 Appointed as 2025 Chair of the Regional Affairs Committee for the NAFSA: Association of International Educators. In this leadership role, Dr. Loehrer advances international education initiatives and professional collaboration across the region.

Harshdeep S. Nanda - Cohort 8

Joined California State University, East Bay as Grants Director in the Career Empowerment Center (June 2025). Dr. Nanda now oversees workforce development programs, including a $2 million WIOA grant awarded by the California Employment Development Department (EDD).

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 9 SPRING GRADUATION

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 SUMMER ORIENTATION

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

COHORT 12 SUMMER ORIENTATION

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

FALL 2025 GATHERING

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

FALL 2025

FALL 2025 GATHERING

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/

CONNIE L. LURIE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

RISING FALL 2025

https://www.sjsu.edu/edd/