The doctoral journey is a profound transformation from passionate practitioner to visionary leader. As I enter with curiosity, I will learn to deconstruct complex challenges, shifting from consuming knowledge to generating it through rigorous research. I will graduate further empowered and equipped with the experiential tools, strategic insight, and recognized authority needed to lead innovation and drive lasting, systemic change in higher education.
As an emerging Educational Technology Leader, I envision making an impact that will advance learning for future generations. I will achieve this goal by combining all of my experience and expertise into becoming an architect of communication systems. The dissertation topic I plan to research is “Closing the Engagement Gap: An AI-Driven Algorithmic Approach to Increase Student Response and Retention.” I aim to establish myself as a thought leader in higher education, positioning my research as a scalable, AI-driven framework for Student Affairs and Communications that transcends the Kean University campus to influence national best practices in student success. As well as being recognized as an expert in developing communication models and speaking at conferences, sharing the success of a student-centered approach and institutional infrastructure. As I move beyond my current role and teaching, I envision becoming a dean of a college and developing curriculum and degree programs that reflect technological advances.
As an emerging Educational Technology Leader, I envision making an impact that will advance learning for future generations. I will achieve this goal by combining all of my experience and expertise into becoming an architect of communication systems. The dissertation topic I plan to research is “Closing the Engagement Gap: An AI-Driven Algorithmic Approach to Increase Student Response and Retention.” I aim to establish myself as a thought leader in higher education, positioning my research as a scalable, AI-driven framework for Student Affairs and Communications that transcends the Kean University campus to influence national best practices in student success. As well as being recognized as an expert in developing communication models and speaking at conferences, sharing the success of a student-centered approach and institutional infrastructure. As I move beyond my current role and teaching, I envision becoming a dean of a college and developing curriculum and degree programs that reflect technological advances.
As it’s a long road to becoming a dean, which is my long-term goal. I have outlined some short-term goals that will help me to advance. Next February, I would have served in my role as Director of Communications & Marketing for five years. I will begin to look for a next level position. To prepare, I will update my resume, look for any additional certifications I can receive over the year, and build up my LinkedIn profile activity to add more credibility.
Year 1: 2026-2027 Academic Year
August 2026: Submit conference proposals for NASPA, ACPA & CASE
Fall 2026 & Spring 2027: LinkedIn Series
Year 2: 2027-2028 Academic Year
July 2027: Pass Doctoral Comprehensive Examinations
Fall 2027: Start a new position as a AVP or higher director title and submit proposals for a tech conference
Spring 2028: Paid speaking workshop
Year 3: 2028-2029 Academic Year
May 2028: Defend Doctoral Dissertation Proposal
Fall 2028: Co-author an article for a Scholarly Publication
April 2029: Dissertation Defense
May 2029: Doctoral Hooding Ceremony & Degree Confirmed