Rachael Stewart, who is a doctoral student in the Ed.D. in PK-12 Educational Leadership program and full-time COE staff member, was named a national scholar by the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA) Jackson Scholars Network.
“I am honored and humbled,” said Stewart, who is also the department coordinator at COE’s Department of Educational Leadership. “I am most excited about the networking, professional development, and mentorship that comes with this opportunity.”
Established in 2003, the UCEA Jackson Scholars Network is a two-year program that offers participants networking, mentoring and professional development for doctoral students of color seeking to become professors of educational leadership. The program was named after the late Dr. Barbara L. Jackson who was a leader, scholar and mentor in the field educational administration for over 50 years.
“I feel blessed to be able to meet other scholars like me who have similar educational leadership aspirations whether in K-12 or higher education,” added Stewart.
Stewart is currently conducting research on African American female college students and their journey toward degree attainment.
“In everything I do, my goal is to help others. I have a great passion towards helping the underserved student population in higher education,” said Stewart, who likes spending time with her husband and her three boys—ages 4, 5 and 6—, traveling and hanging out at the beach. “My goal is to contribute towards equitable access for this student population through change in institutional culture and initiatives.”
The University Council for Educational Administration “has facilitated the development of a robust pipeline of faculty and graduate students of color in the field of educational leadership. As a result, Barbara Jackson Scholars and Alumni enhance the field of educational leadership and UCEA with their scholarship and expertise.”
College of Education Dean, Dr. Y. Barry Chung, joins with Stewart's colleagues in congratulating her on this deserving award.