EdD in Educational Leadership New England low-residency experience
Experienced professors
Career-relevant curriculum
Academic and career support
Program Overview Why get an educational leadership degree on campus?
Learn to lead education-focused organizations in the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership program at Southern New Hampshire University. In this low-residency cohort program, you'll analyze and synthesize theory and research to address issues in educational settings and promote equitable learning for all students.
Skills you'll learn:
- Doctoral-level reading and writing
- Goal setting with sociocultural knowledge
- Drawing defensible conclusions from research findings
- Application of research findings in decision-making
- Participatory and democratic strategies to engage others
- Leadership-level critical reflection
Courses & Curriculum Learn to lead with on-campus education leadership courses
The EdD in Education Leadership program is a 48-credit cohort program influenced by SNHU’s active participation as a member of The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate. Through action-based frameworks, innovative strategies, scholarly readings and collaborative conversations, you'll analyze and reflect on contemporary educational issues while learning to lead positive organizational change. Best of all, you can tailor your program and dissertation to your goals as a scholar-practitioner.
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty members bring with them decades of knowledge and experience, which informs the development of SNHU’s courses and curriculum. They look forward to supporting your journey both in the classroom and as you work toward a career in your field.
Audrey Rogers
Position
Associate Dean for Graduate Education Programs
Joined SNHU
2007
Education
- EdD in Leadership and Learning from Rivier College
- MA in History from the University of New Hampshire
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell
- BA in History from Tufts University
Dr. Audrey Rogers is the associate dean for graduate education programs and professor of education at Southern New Hampshire University. She holds New Hampshire licensure as a social studies educator (grades 5-12) and as a digital learning specialist (K-12). She is past president and current member of the NH IHE (Institutions of Higher Education) Network, a consortium of all NH educator preparation programs. Her recent research focused on competency-based education and assessment literacy in preservice educators.
Jessica Brennan, MS
Assistant Dean for Graduate Education Programs
Jessica Brennan, MS, is the assistant dean for graduate education programs. She is a third-generation graduate of SNHU and has a lot of passion and historical knowledge for our university. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Advertising, and Retailing with a minor in sociology and a concentration in fashion merchandising from SNHU. She also holds graduate certificates in marketing and international business, as well as a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Science in Marketing from SNHU. She was also involved as an undergraduate student in student organizations, being honored with a national Who’s Who award, and has worked in a variety of roles across the university, including the School of Business, the School of Arts, Sciences and Education, global campus, special programs and graduate education programs. Brennan also teaches occasionally as an adjunct for the School of Business in undergraduate marketing and fashion merchandising courses.
Fatma Ayyad, Ph.D.
Dr. Fatma Ayyad is an instructor at Southern New Hampshire University and independent consultant for research and evaluation. She earned a doctorate in evaluation measurement and research from Western Michigan University (WMU), two master's degrees in adult and higher education and strategies of science teaching, as well as an online/blended teaching certificate. Prior to joining SNHU, Ayyad worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the Center for Research in Education and Social Policy (CRESP) at the University of Delaware. Ayyad also worked as a researcher within the College of Education at Grand Valley State University. She demonstrated competencies and skills in research methodology and teaching in diverse settings.
Ayyad has published articles on diverse academic issues, including current challenges in higher education, diversity and co-teaching. As a research manager at Pinellas County Schools, she planned and conducted research and evaluation for federal and local educational programs. She inspired the use of a formal evaluation plan and logic model for a systematic program evaluation. Dr. Ayyad also worked as a researcher and coordinator for the GEAR UP program at WMU. She has more than 15 years of experience in educational research and evaluation and eight years of teaching science and providing training for science teachers in middle and high schools.
Dr. Frank Bass
Dr. Frank Bass received his PhD in Instructional Leadership from Boston College and holds a master’s degree in English literature from the Bread Loaf School of English. Bass spent the bulk of his career in public education, beginning as a substitute teacher in 1974 and serving as a teacher, coordinator and athletics coach over the next ten years.
Over the last 25 years, he served as both principal and superintendent in New Hampshire schools, retiring from Concord in 2020. Bass currently serves as an adjunct in the MA, CAGS and doctoral programs at SNHU.
Dr. Peter Berg
Dr. Peter Berg, a lifelong educator and educational leader, works with teens and young adults as a mental health counselor. He works with educational innovation and the transformation of education, as well as working with learners and families to find the right educational fit. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Walden University.
He is an adjunct instructor at Southern New Hampshire University in the educational leadership doctoral program, as well as teaching at Antioch University and the Transformative Learning Foundation. He is the author of the best-selling book "The Tao of Teenagers: A Guide to Teen Health, Happiness & Empowerment," and his work includes helping teenagers empower themselves so they can take charge of their health and happiness and be the masters of their own lives. His mission is to guide youth and families to create transformations that lead to health, happiness and empowerment. His research focuses on holistic education, transformative leadership and self-determinant education models directed by learners. Peter is the assistant director of the Alternative Education Resource Organization whose mission is to bring learner-directed, learner-centered educational strategies to all learners and families.
Dr. Abigail Bergen
Dr. Bergen joined SNHU in 2022 as an assistant professor of general special education after serving as a special education administrator and having several roles within the public school system as a special education teacher. Bergen has completed publications and presentations on topics regarding special education at national and international conferences. She was also recognized with the Emerging Leader Award from the New Hampshire Association of Special Education Administrators.
Dr. Bergen earned her Bachelor of Arts in English at Johnson State College, as well as a Master of Education in Moderate Disabilities 5-12 at Salem State College. She holds a doctorate in leadership and learning from Rivier University. Her dissertation focused on resources that help special education students develop self-efficacy. Bergen's research interests include educational systems in emerging countries and educational trends and issues. Bergen's most recent professional endeavors include conducting research and teacher workshops in Belize and serving as a member of the Round Table at the International Round Table Symposiums at Oxford University.
Kimberly L. Blanchette Ed.D
Kimberly Blanchette, EdD, serves as the associate vice president of business and STEM academic programs at Southern New Hampshire University. Blanchette has served in training and higher education as an academic leader for almost three decades, passionately driven to foster growth in learning and goal achievement of individuals and teams. Her academic focus has centered on curriculum and instructional quality of face-to-face, blended and online programs. Prior to Southern New Hampshire University, she served Daniel Webster College in the capacity of dean for academic support and faculty affairs, assistant provost and associate dean for the School of Business, Management and Professional Studies. Early in her career, Blanchette served Boston University as manager of off-campus programs and as program manager for authorized education as part of the team that secured the prestigious Microsoft Excellence in Training award.
Her research interests include the challenges and opportunities of rapidly changing markets and industries, managing costs, global competition and highly mobile and distributed work teams. She has published and presented on the topic of leadership and is particularly interested in multigenerational and technological impacts on leaders and organizations.
Blanchette earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts Lowell before moving on to earn a Master of Science in Administrative Studies in Innovation and Technology Management from Boston University. She also earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Southern New Hampshire University and possesses a CMC (Certified Master Coach) from the Center for Coaching Certification.
Dr. Mark Branco
Dr. Mark Branco has served for almost thirty years as an educator both in the classroom and in leadership positions. He spent the first 11 years of his career as a middle school and high school music teacher and band director. He then served as a middle school assistant principal for 5 years, a middle school principal for six years and an assistant superintendent for six years. Branco currently serves as the superintendent of Rockport Public Schools in Rockport, MA. Additionally, he has facilitated a variety of professional development sessions throughout New England and teaches graduate classes in educational leadership.
Branco has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Westfield State University, a Master of Education in Secondary Education from Fitchburg State University and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Northeastern University. His professional areas of interest include professional development, school improvement planning, community relations/communication, organizational and change leadership, supervision and evaluation, curriculum development and instructional, assessment and grading practices. He enjoys spending free time with his family, playing his drums and playing golf. He is a better drummer than golfer.
Dr. Eboni M. Caridine
Dr. Eboni M. Caridine is a native of Illinois and an accomplished educator and visionary leader known for her expertise in education and organizational management. She is an adjunct professor at Southern New Hampshire University. She remains committed to academic excellence by teaching and working closely with doctoral students in education at Southern New Hampshire University. Her passion for inspiring the next generation of educators has led her to mentor countless students, fostering their intellectual growth and professional development.
She is also the owner and CEO of EMC Consulting and the director of operations and programs for City Impact in Lincoln, Nebraska. Beyond academia, Caridine brings her visionary leadership to the corporate landscape. As a director of operations and programs, she oversees the daily operations and leads the leadership team in strategic planning, process optimization and resource management.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago, a Master of Management from Robert Morris University in Chicago and a PhD from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Dr. Diane Carreiro
Diane Carreiro is beginning a new principalship at the North Intermediate School in fall 2023. She is finishing her 12th year as the principal at the Fuller Meadow School in Middleton, Massachusetts. She has also held the position of curriculum specialist, math specialist, grade 1 teacher and integrated preschool teacher.
Earning her doctoral degree in educational leadership in 2016, Carreiro was in the second doctoral cohort at SNHU. She also earned her master’s degree in special education and her undergraduate degree in early childhood education from Salem State University. Currently, Carreiro is an adjunct professor at Merrimack College. She also supports current SNHU students in their doctoral journeys.
Dr. Amy Cole
Dr. Amy Cole earned a PhD at McGill University in integrated studies in education, master’s in education from University of New Hampshire and bachelor’s in international relations at Boston University. She has a long career in education, first as a middle school teacher and then as a curriculum director in public schools in New Hampshire and Vermont.
Dr. Cole now holds the position of assistant head of school for academics at Hawaii Preparatory Academy on Hawaii's Island (Big Island). She has held academic appointments at McGill University, Saint Michael's College and the field-based EdD program at Southern New Hampshire University, teaching courses in teacher education, educational leadership and educational research. Her research and teaching interests include teacher pedagogical beliefs, teacher learning, curriculum development, assessment practices, secondary school transformation and research methods, including qualitative and mixed methods with a particular fondness for the creative use of research methods, such as visual methods, memory methodology and metaphor analysis.
Lois B. Costa Ed.D
Dr. Lois B. Costa is the superintendent of the Hampton school district in Hampton, New Hampshire. She holds a New Hampshire licensure as an elementary educator, principal and superintendent. She is a past board member of the NH EDies, Schools of Excellence and is a current member of the New Hampshire Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Dr. Costa received her BS in Early Childhood Education from the University of New Hampshire, her MEd in Elementary Education from the University of New Hampshire, her certification in administration from Rivier University and an EdD from Southern New Hampshire University. She was the Elementary Principal of the Year and Nationally Distinguished Principal of the Year in 2014. Her school was named the 2012 School of Excellence for the State of New Hampshire. Her primary area of research centers on school climate and leadership. She was invited to serve on a school climate panel at the AERA Conference in April of 2016 in Washington, DC.
Lisa Dias
Dr. Lisa Dias earned her doctorate in educational leadership and learning from Rivier University in 2016 and also holds a master’s degree in education with K-12 certification in health and physical education.
She has spent the past sixteen years working in administrative leadership as a principal for ten years and as a head of school in an independent school serving early childhood, elementary and middle school ages. Dias has been a part of the adjunct faculty at SNHU since 2017 in the MEd program, more recently supporting doctoral students during their dissertation journeys. Outside of the academic realm, she enjoys volunteering her time to support young athletes in the development of their leadership skills.
Amanda Dolan, EdD
Senior Instructional Designer
Dr. Amanda Dolan is a learning science specialist with a deep love and respect for learning psychology and accessibility. She currently works as a senior instructional designer, developing programs with the Learning Science and Assessment team at Southern New Hampshire University. Since 2021, she has also served as an adjunct graduate faculty member in the online education department, sharing her passion for research and advocacy with students. Before joining SNHU, she worked in public education and taught across multiple grade levels with a primary focus in mathematics.
Her research experience includes both qualitative work on teacher attrition and contributions to large-scale user research supporting linguistic diversity in higher education, promoting plain language practices in design and assessment for large-scale institutional deployment models. Her most recent mixed methods research explores strategies for instructional practice that can support the changing needs of learners in higher education. She has presented, conducted training and published on best practices for design methodologies, linguistic diversity and accessibility in design.
Dolan earned a Doctorate of Educational Leadership and Master of Elementary Education at Southern New Hampshire University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Rehabilitative Services from Assumption University.
Dolan lives in New Hampshire with her husband, their four children and their dog, Hank.
Dr. Cynthia Freyberger
Dr. Cynthia Freyberger has been teaching for Southern New Hampshire University’s School of Education since 2019. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science from Fitchburg State College, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Notre Dame College, an Advanced Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership from Rivier College and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Learning from Rivier University. Prior to teaching at SNHU, Freyberger taught clinical laboratory science and life sciences at both the high school and college level. The majority of her time in public education was spent supervising middle and high school curriculum, instruction and assessment for all subject areas. Freyberger has been a presenter and member of technical advisory groups for Aurora Institute (iNACOL). She chairs visiting accreditation teams for the New England Association for Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and was a long-standing board member of the New Hampshire Excellence in Education Committee (EDies).
Karin Heffernan MLIS, Ed.M.
Karin Heffernan is a research and learning librarian and associate professor at SNHU, where she has been for nearly 8 years. She has been an academic librarian for over 20 years serving at New England College and Proctor Academy.
She previously taught in public schools (from elementary through high school), in art programs and even water aerobics for 11 years. She holds an MLIS from the University of Rhode Island and an MEd from Harvard University. Her research focuses on information literacy, pedagogy and undergraduate research. She spends her free time hiking with her husband, her dog (Hazelnut) and her three adult children when they return for visits to New Hampshire.
Nicole Hudson, Ed.D.
Dr. Nicole Hudson is the executive director of workforce education for the University of Nevada - Las Vegas. She is responsible for engaging employers, deepening community connections and assessing and advising on degree and certificate programs related to high-growth job sectors.
Prior to this role, Hudson served as associate director of campus relations for the office of online education and was responsible for online instructor faculty development. Hudson has spent over 25 years in higher education and in talent acquisition and training roles. She has taught since 1999 in face-to-face and online environments. She holds a doctorate in organizational leadership and certification in human resources.
Dr. Michelle LaPointe
Michelle LaPointe has her PhD in educational leadership & policy analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She uses her knowledge of policies to support authentic learning experiences at all stages of life, as well as preparing school leaders to develop effective school programs. LaPointe has evaluated programs and worked for federal and state agencies, non-profit organizations and school districts across the United States.
LaPointe recently served as a research fellow at Harvard University's Kennedy School. In addition, she served as the research director at both Stanford University’s Education Leadership Institute and Lesley University’s Center for Reading Recovery and Literacy Collaborative. Through these roles, LaPointe gained extensive experience translating research to decision-makers and practitioners to support the implementation of effective programs.
Dr. Kim Lindley-Soucy
Dr. Kim Lindley-Soucy has worked at Londonderry (NH) High School since 1993, first as a member of the English Department, and has served as curriculum coordinator for the humanities since 2006. She moved from New York City to attend college and has been in New England ever since, falling in love with the area during her first teaching position at Minuteman Technical High School.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Boston College, her Master of Arts in English Literature from the University of Massachusetts Boston and an EdD with a focus on Language Arts and Literacy from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2006. She has been involved with the doctoral program at SNHU since 2013, having taught and co-taught varied courses in qualitative research, assessed comprehensive examinations and served on several dissertation committees. Her research interests include literacy, writing instruction and students with special needs, particularly autism spectrum disorders. She has co-authored an article on the use of robot therapy for students with ASD. She lives in Londonderry, NH with her husband, daughter, dog and cat.
Dr. Phil Littlefield
Dr. Phil Littlefield served for thirteen years as the superintendent of schools of SAU #15, which includes the towns of Auburn, Candia and Hooksett. Previously, he served almost 20 years as the superintendent of Methuen (MA) Public Schools. He has also worked as the assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and personnel in Methuen, middle school principal and assistant principal in Foxborough (MA) and curriculum coordinator in Hopkinton (MA).
Dr. Littlefield started his career in education in Hopkinton as a teacher in the Hopkinton School System, where he taught biology, chemistry and general Science. Littlefield has a bachelor’s degree from Boston University, master’s degree from Framingham State College and CAGS from Worcester State College. He earned his doctorate at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Littlefield has extensive experience teaching in higher education at Southern New Hampshire University, Salem State College and the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He is an avid snowmobiler, ATV enthusiast and boater. His Harley Davidson Heritage provides for countless hours of riding across New Hampshire. He enjoys spending his free time with family and friends.
Dr. Sarah Marandos
Dr. Sarah Marandos has been an adjunct professor at Southern New Hampshire University since 2013. She is currently the assistant superintendent in Pelham, New Hampshire and was previously a teacher and administrator in Nashua, New Hampshire. Sarah was also an adjunct at Rivier University for ten years.
Dr. Marandos earned her BA in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts Lowell, an MAT and CAGS from Rivier University and an EdD in Leadership and Learning from UMass. Her research focus was social emotional learning and early intervention. She serves on the board for the Nashua Education Foundation. She lives in Salem, New Hampshire with her husband and daughters: Kendall, Brady and Maya.
Lauren Marsden, EdD
Adjunct Professor
Dr. Lauren Marsden is an adjunct professor in the education department at Southern New Hampshire University. She is an experienced educator with ten years of high school classroom experience and four years as a curriculum coordinator in New Hampshire. She is the newest curriculum coordinator for Epping Middle High School. Marsden has been an adjunct at Rivier University for over four years, teaching in the master's and doctoral programs, where she has assisted students with the development of their proposals and sat on dissertation committees.
In 2018, she graduated from Rivier University with her doctorate in education. Her research was on first-generation college students and their connectedness during their transition to college. She also earned a master's in education from Rivier College in curriculum and instruction and a BA in Spanish with a focus in secondary education and a minor in psychology from Emmanuel College.
Dr. Michael Moriarty
Dr. Michael D. Moriarty earned his BS in Biology from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. He received a master's degree in education administration and his EdD from American International College in Springfield, MA. Moriarty has been in public education for the past 18 years as a teacher and administrator in Massachusetts and Vermont.
He is currently the assistant director of learning design for the North Country Supervisory Union in Newport, VT. Moriarty has been an adjunct professor in Southern New Hampshire University's EdD program since 2019, teaching courses focused on positive psychology, leadership theory, organizational development and educational research. In addition to teaching courses, Moriarty currently chairs and sits on dissertation committees and comprehensive exam committees.
Dr. Amanda J. Murchison
Dr. Amanda J. Murchison earned both her doctorate in educational leadership and master's degree in secondary english education at Southern New Hampshire University. After teaching at Goffstown High School for 16 years and serving as an adjunct professor in the secondary clinical master of education program at SNHU for two years, Murchison transitioned to full-time faculty as assistant professor of secondary education in the fall of 2022.
Her research interests include gender equity, gender attitudes and teacher preparation program design. A New Hampshire native, Murchison enjoys spending time on Lake Winnipesaukee with her husband, Gerry, and their two dog children, Simon Bentley and Féirín McGee. When she is not helping students, researching or relaxing on the lake, one can find Murchison at the barn or competing at horse shows with her American saddlebred horse, Bruno.
Dr. Steven Nilhas
Dr. Steven Nilhas earned a BA in English from Washburn University of Topeka, followed by a MS in Communication from Fort Hays State University. He then completed his PhD at the University of Kansas with a major in educational policy and leadership and a minor in special education. His career has taken him from the dry windy plains of western Kansas to Asunción, Paraguay to Cartagena, Colombia and most recently to northern New Hampshire. Nilhas has taught high school English, coached speech and debate and has served in various administrative roles, including superintendent of schools, principal, director of curriculum, instruction, and assessment and federal grants director. These positions included rural, urban, suburban and international locations. His college teaching experience includes adjunct instructor roles for Fort Hays University, the University of Alabama, the Universidad Evangelical Paraguay and Southern New Hampshire University.
Dr. Nilhas enjoys teaching students of all ages and interests, and he places a high emphasis on student engagement and personalized student-centered learning. He has worked over the years to address issues of equity and fairness and to encourage the involvement of all stakeholders in education at various levels.
Dr. Jeremy Owens
Dr. Jeremy Owens has worked in higher education as a researcher, faculty member and administrator for over 25 years. He has spent the last 6 years as an academic and leader at SNHU. In the doctoral program he focuses on research methodology and leadership courses. Before becoming an administrator, Owens was a researcher who focused on the genetics of addiction. In this capacity, he used models to determine candidate genes as well as the amount of variance that contributed to complex from these candidate genes.
Dr. Ronald Pedro
Dr. Ronald Pedro earned his EdD as a member of the first SNHU EdD cohort (2012-2017). He has a Master of Education in School Administration, a Master of Fine Arts in Non-Fiction Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English. He was a high school English teacher, assistant principal in middle and high schools and a principal of a middle school and K-8 school.
In 2012, Pedro joined the SNHU School of Education as the certification manager. He later moved to the special programs and advanced studies office, where he worked in recruitment and admission of graduate and doctoral programs and finally to campus transfer admission in 2022. From 1987-1992, Pedro served in the United States Army, taking part in Desert Shield and Desert Storm (Saudi Arabia and Iraq), Air Assault School (Fort Campbell, Kentucky) and Airborne School (Fort Benning, Georgia). Currently, he lives on Long Island, Maine, with his wife, Susan. He has four children, Kate, Michael, Jonathan and Hunter.
Richard Poor
Richard Poor currently serves as the principal of a large urban middle school in Massachusetts. Previously, Poor served as an assistant principal, instructional coach and teacher in several urban schools, gaining extensive experience in school turnaround/restart.
Poor holds a BA in History from Framingham State University, MEd in Secondary Education from Endicott College, CAGS in School Leadership from American International College and an EdD from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Poor's research interests have focused on the turnaround of underperforming urban schools and the impact of positive behavior systems.
A veteran of the United States Army, Richard resides in New Hampshire with his wife and two young children.
Dr. Irv Richardson
Dr. Irv Richardson is currently the coordinator for public education and school support at NEA-New Hampshire. In this role, he provides professional learning opportunities for New Hampshire educators. Richardson also teaches at Southern New Hampshire University in the educational leadership doctoral program.
He has worked as an elementary classroom teacher, teaching principal and principal. He has also served as a senior consultant for TBA Consulting Group, working extensively with states on projects such as Teacher Quality Enhancement grants, consulting with state departments of education, working on educator induction and developing national standards for leaders and teachers. Richardson was the associate executive director of staff development for educators, a subsidiary of Highlights for Children. He was Maine’s Teacher of the Year in 1988 and received a National Educator Award from the Milken Foundation in 1993.
Dr. David Ryan
David Ryan is currently the superintendent of schools in New Hampshire’s SAU 16. He has served as an education leader for the past 26 years in positions ranging from superintendent of SAU 53, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in the Manchester School District, principal of Nashua High School North and assistant principal at Manchester High School Central. At Nashua High School North, he was recognized as the 2012 Charles A. Napoli New Hampshire State Principal of the Year and one of three 2013 NASSP/MetLife National Principal of the Year Finalists.
Dr. Ryan has served as a member of the National Principals Advisory Panel for the College Board, is currently the chair of their New England Regional Council and continues to serve as a commissioner on New Hampshire's statewide task forces for public school funding and minimum academic standards. He is a presenter and an adjunct instructor in the areas of systems leadership, school law and doctoral research at the University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University. He holds an EdD and MEd in Education Leadership from Boston College, an EdS in Education Administration from the University of New Hampshire and a BA in English from Plymouth State University. David and his wife of 26 years, Maura, make their home in Hooksett where they have raised their three sons.
Dr. Mustafa Safiia
Dr. Mustafa Safiia is an assistant vice president of academic quality & strategy at SNHU. He has over 10 years of experience in higher education spanning a variety of academic and leadership roles. Safiia has taught courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. He holds an EdD in Organizational Leadership Studies from Northeastern University. He is currently pursuing an MBA at Boston University.
Dr. Safiia is an avid CrossFit athlete who takes health and fitness seriously.
Dr. Robert St. Cyr
Dr. Robert St. Cyr is currently the owner of Techsploration, Inc. As a professional presenter of the physical sciences, he visits a clientele of 140 schools in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. St. Cyr started his teaching career in music education with a bachelor of arts degree. He taught music in Hudson, NH, for ten years and earned a master’s degree in educational supervision and administration from Notre Dame College. In 2017, he earned an EdD in Educational Leadership from Southern New Hampshire University, and his dissertation is entitled "Decision Making Processes and Declining Enrollment in Northern New England."
St. Cyr started his public school administration career in Litchfield, NH, as an assistant principal. He served as a school principal in Mont Vernon and Candia, NH, for 16 years. He left the field of administration in 2018 to return to Techsploration, Inc. as the owner and president of the company. He also teaches as an adjunct faculty member in the graduate and doctoral programs at SNHU.
Dr. Jenn Scarpati
Dr. Jenn Scarpati has worked in the field of elementary education for the past 23 years. She has spent the past 10 years serving in the role of principal. Her passions include urban education, leadership and social-emotional learning. As part of her work on CASEL’s National Practitioners Advisory Group, she published “Ready to Lead: A Principal’s Reflection on a Decade of SEL Reform.” She enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family.
Sara Truebridge, Ed.D.
Sara Truebridge, founder of EDLINKS™ and an adjunct faculty member in the educational leadership doctoral program at SNHU, is a globally recognized strengths-based thought leader in education, passionate about “Educating The New Humanity to Awaken and Lift Humanity to See Good. Do Better.” With 40+ years of experience in education, Truebridge is uniquely situated as a pioneer and visionary having worked in all sectors: policy, practice and research. She has presented two TEDx Talks, taught in the classroom, authored legislation, contributed chapters and wrote a book about resilience published by Teachers College Press. Truebridge continues to engage in groundbreaking research on topics including resilience, SEL, compassion fatigue, trauma, healing, equity and the role COVID-19 has had in education.
Dr. Kathryn Welby
Dr. Kathryn Welby is an associate professor of practice and director of K-12 teacher preparation programs at the Winston School of Education and Social Policy at Merrimack College. She is the author of the book "Remote Learning Strategies for Students with IEPs" (Routledge, 2021).
Her research and publications are grounded in her 15+ years of experience as an educator working in urban schools. Welby has been nationally recognized for her research on topics such as remote special education during the pandemic and her work on the impact of the opioid epidemic on schools.
Welby graduated from Southern New Hampshire University in 2019. In 2020, her dissertation, "The implications of the opioid epidemic on select elementary schools in crisis regions of the Northeast: A multiple case study investigation," was awarded the Schmitt Award for excellence in graduate research from the New England Educational Research Organization. Her dissertation is under a book contract with Routledge/Taylor & Francis with an expected release in 2024. In addition to her research, she is a featured educator in Education Week and Wallet Hub and a contributing author for Edutopia, ADDitude Magazine, Academic Leader, Inside Higher Ed and Phi Delta Kappan.
Welby lives in New Hampshire with her husband and three children. She spends her free time all over New England at ice rinks, soccer fields, gymnastic meets, basketball courts and baseball fields, watching and cheering on her children.
Dr. Bernadette Weltsek
Dr. Bernadette Weltsek graduated from St. John’s University with a BS in Elementary Education and an MS in Secondary Education that led to a 34-year career as a high school social studies teacher and department head. She has an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction and an EdD from Southern New Hampshire University.
Currently, Weltsek is a lead evaluator at Western Governors University. Her qualitative dissertation focused on the lived experience of transgender and gender non-conforming high school students. She lives in Bow, New Hampshire with her husband.
To learn more about SNHU faculty, visit our campus faculty page.
Major courses
You’ll take courses and conduct research that provide you with a solid foundation, allowing you to apply your learning and make an impact in your specialized area. These courses will allow you to learn a wide variety of topics and help prepare you for a role in your desired field.
Courses may include:
*Please note the Dissertation in Practice Seminar continuation course is required each term beyond completion of core program requirements until successful completion of the program. Students must complete their program within a total of 8 years.
Visit the course catalog to view the full EdD in Educational Leadership curriculum.
Engaging and convenient low-residency cohort model
The cohort learning environment of the doctorate in educational leadership offers a collaborative experience for doctoral candidates with diverse career experiences and backgrounds. With hybrid courses occurring in a condensed weekend format during the spring and fall and a 5-day residency each summer, this low-residency format makes getting your doctorate engaging and convenient.
Your cohort members will become a source of support and encouragement to one another. Ideal candidates are in a position to influence the ideas and actions of others through positional or non-positional leadership opportunities. School leaders, community leaders, leaders within nonprofit and government organizations and local entrepreneurs are welcome to apply for program admission.
Can't wait? You don't have to!
Whether you’re looking to continue your education locally or traveling across the world to experience SNHU, you can apply now. We can’t wait to meet you!
Career Outlook What can I do with a doctorate in educational leadership?
In the field of education, there are many ways to make an impact on others. With field experience and an advanced degree in educational leadership, you could set yourself up for a successful career in a number of leadership roles. In academia, this could mean becoming a curriculum leader, dean, department head, principal or superintendent. Or, you could go on to work in the corporate world, with titles like chief learning officer, executive director, policy director and beyond.
Career paths include:
- Principal
- Postsecondary administrator
- School superintendent
- Training and development manager
- Higher education faculty member
Median annual pay for elementary, middle and high school principals as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
Median annual pay for postsecondary education administrators as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Campus Residency Experience So, what's it like during summer residency?
At SNHU, you’ll serve as a scholar-practitioner, building experience, analyzing theory, and applying what you’ve learned to your own context. In addition to convenient hybrid courses one weekend a month, you’ll also build your professional network during an in-person weeklong residency each year. With this low residency and hybrid course approach, your life (and your career) won’t have to pause for your degree. You'll pursue dissertation topics based on your individual interests to make an impact in your professional practice and setting.
Student support
At SNHU, you don’t have to do this college thing alone. You’ll have help from your advisor, access to tutoring and office hours, career coaching, and mental health services so you can do your best and feel your best.
Additionally, our Office of Diversity and Campus Accessibility Center make campus a safe place for everyone. Visit our Student Services page to learn more about our support offerings.
Small class sizes
The EdD in Educational Leadership program's cohort learning environment offers a collaborative experience for doctoral candidates with diverse career experiences and backgrounds. The program includes hybrid courses occurring in a condensed weekend format during the spring and fall, as well as a 5-day residency each summer.
State-of-the-art facilities
Our 300-acre campus has everything you need. From technology-advanced classroom settings to your dorms complete with fitness centers and hangout spots, our goal is to give you the best college experience possible.
Whether you’re learning in a classroom, in a lab, on the field, or in your field, you’ll have what you need to be successful from the moment you wake up to the moment you close your textbooks.
School of Arts, Sciences and Education Learn about the School of Arts, Sciences and Education
From understanding why people behave the way they do, to studying and tackling today's environmental issues, the School of Arts, Sciences and Education serves as an academic hub for creativity, collaboration and learning. Here, you'll have the chance to gain real-world experience through internships, student teaching, lab work and community-based projects. From studying cells under a microscope or analyzing crime scenes to leading a student-teaching session in an elementary classroom, you’ll learn how the world works so you can help make it a better place.
Student teaching opportunities
Inkwell game design studio
State-of-the-art labs
How SNHU makes college affordable
At Southern New Hampshire University, we're on a mission to make high-quality education more accessible with more affordable tuition. With 70+ career-focused majors, state-of-the-art facilities, D2 sports and over 70 student clubs and organizations, you can get the campus experience you've always dreamed of at a more affordable price.
Hear from us
We offer a dynamic range of programs designed to support your career advancement through transformative educational experiences. Our offerings provide practical, hands-on learning, professional networking opportunities and a strong sense of community fostered by our cohort model.
Audrey Rogers, Associate Dean, Graduate Education Programs
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The EdD program is a minimum 48 graduate credit program leading to a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. Students needing longer to complete a dissertation in practice beyond these 48 credits will continue in dissertation colloquium courses until all program elements have been satisfied.
Many of our EdD students are professional adult learners balancing professional, academic, personal and family lives. This has influenced course scheduling, the action-focus of the program and practitioner-focused course content. While doctoral study is a significant undertaking, these are some of the elements that all help make the program doable.
SNHU's EdD program is offered in a cohort model with virtual and synchronous courses occurring in a condensed weekend format during the spring, fall and summer semesters and a week-long residency each summer.
During most academic terms, students in this doctoral program will take two or three 3-credit courses. After the successful completion of comprehensive exams, students enroll in dissertation colloquium courses each term.
Classes meet synchronously one weekend a month in a condensed format.
Transfer credits at the doctoral level may be accepted for up to one-third of the total program credits. Transferring credits must equate to full course credit hour requirements. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and require program director approval.
Courses accepted for transfer credit at the doctoral level require a grade of “B” or higher and must have been completed within the last five (5) years.
The EdD program cohort schedules are designed to take a minimum of 3 years. Individual students needing extended time to complete the dissertation can continue to register for dissertation colloquium courses to extend their time in the program beyond their cohort schedule. SNHU allows up to 8 years to complete your program from the time you begin the first course.
The EdD program consists of closed cohorts designed for matriculating students who have successfully completed the application process. Individual courses are not available.
Three residencies are required. Residencies run Monday through Friday and are held in the summer.
Yes! The Student Support team provides professional advising on issues such as registration and scheduling. Additionally, each doctoral cohort is assigned a Doctoral instructor who provides mentorship and coaching every Term from 1 through 6, up to Term 7 when your Dissertation committee is assigned.
Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/elementary-middle-and-high-school-principals.htm (viewed Oct. 18, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm (viewed Oct. 18, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
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