I joined the Concordia University faculty in July 2021 as an Adjunct Professor in the Education Department. I am guided by the overarching mission that children are the core of our society and they all deserve the opportunity to be successful learners. I incorporate this mission into her daily work and courses. Currently, I serve as an Elementary Principal at Bridgewater Elementary School in Northfield, MN. I have been in this position since July 2007. Prior to this position, I opened and served as the principal of Prairie Elementary in Worthington, MN from 2002-2007. I am the 2021 National Distinguished Principal for the State of Minnesota. I also serves on the Board of School Administrators (BOSA) as the chairperson, and has served on this board since 2014 being originally appointed to the board by former Governor Mark Dayton. In addition, I have served as the President of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association (MESPA) as well as various other roles in this association. I serve as the MESPA representative on the NAESP Racial Equity Taskforce.

Academic Credentials

Ed.S. Educational Administration, St. Mary's University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

M.Ed. University of St. Thomas, Twin Cities

B.S. Secondary Education Mathematics, Moorhead State University, Moorhead, MN

Professional Licenses

Principal K-12

Mathematics 7-12

Areas of Focus

Leadership, Equity and Education

Professional Affiliations

MESPA, NAESP, BOSA

Dr. Marsha Baisch is joining the Concordia faculty as a University Supervisor after retiring from a career of 40+ years in K-12 education, including 26 years in administration. She began her career as a classroom teacher and has held leadership positions as a building and district administrator. Dr. Baisch has served in rural, suburban, and inner-city settings. Her love of children transferred to her passion for working with building administrators, and is eager to work with those aspiring to become school leaders. She is passionate about ensuring leaders have the capacity to serve in diverse settings. Dr. Baisch completed her doctoral studies at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities Campus in Educational Policy and Administration. As a former kindergarten teacher, her passion for funding all-day kindergarten was evident in her dissertation titled Adjustment to First Grade as she researched the differences in students who had attended all-day versus half-day kindergarten.

Academic Credentials

Educational Doctorate in Educational Policy and Administration - University of Minnesota

Master of Science in Elementary Administration - Chadron State College, Chadron, NE

Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Health, Physical Education and Recreation - University of Jamestown, Jamestown, ND

Professional Licenses

Minnesota Elementary Teacher

Minnesota Elementary Principal

Minnesota District Superintendent

Areas of Focus

Principal Internship

Professional Affiliations

Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) Association For Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

Professional Publications and Presentations

Baisch, M. (2003). Adjustment to first grade. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN. Dick, R. & Baisch, M. (1992). Morning meeting: A great way to start the day. Principal. 35(1), 11.

Jane Berenz joined the Concordia faculty in 2018 as an adjunct professor after retiring from a career of 36 years in K-12 education, including 23 years in administration. She continues her leadership work, coaching school principals and teaching leadership courses in the CSP Educational Specialist program. Berenz has also been active in the program assisting with course design and development. She currently is an Associate at  B.W.P & ASSOCIATES, LTD Educational Leadership Search Consultants.

She retired in July 2018 after nine years as the superintendent of Independent School District 196, the fourth-largest district in Minnesota, with more than 150,000 residents, 28,000 students in grades K-12, and 3,500 employees. She has been connected with the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools (District 196) since 1987. She had held various jobs in the district, including high school special education teacher, elementary school teacher, elementary principal, and then district director for nine years before she was named superintendent in 2009. Before her employment with ISD 196, she was a special ed and elementary school teacher in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Professional Licenses

District Superintendent, 

Elementary Principal,

Elementary Teacher, 

K-12 Learning Disabilities, 

K-12 Mild to Moderately Handicapped

Areas of Focus

Equity in Education, 

Curriculum and Instruction, 

Leadership Development, 

Resources to support K-12 Education, 

Supervision of superintendent principal interns

Academic Credentials

Berenz completed her masters in 1990 from Minnesota State at Mankato, then extended her leadership graduate learning at the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State at Mankato, allowing her to receive her administrative licenses as a principal and superintendent.  

Professional Affiliations

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

She was superintendent of the St. Louis Park Public Schools for nine years. St. Louis Park, Minnesota is a first ring suburb with a diverse student population. During her tenure, she provided effective leadership that resulted in improved financial stability, increased student achievement and innovative educational programming to meet students’ needs. She also provided leadership in cabinet positions in Robbinsdale and Elk River. She began her leadership journey as a principal in Minneapolis.

Academic Credentials

Ph.D., University of Minnesota, 1991 Major: Educational Administration

M.Ed., University of North Dakota, 1978 Major: Reading K-12

B.S., Education University of Wisconsin Platteville, 1973 Major: Elementary Education

Professional Licenses

Superintendent

Principal

Email

bowers@csp.edu 

Dr. John Braun serves as Assistant Professor of Education in the Department of Doctoral Studies in Education. Prior to CSP, his leadership career spanned thirty-one years in the K-12 principalship. He was the principal of Barnum Elementary from 1988 – 1990. He served as principal of Lake Marion Elementary from 1990 – 2014 and as principal of Lakeville South High School from 2014 – 2019, both in Lakeville, MN. Additionally, he was an adjunct faculty member at Saint Mary’s University for twenty years in the Educational Leadership department and was the recipient of the SMU Outstanding Faculty Award.

Academic Credentials
Ed.D. Educational Leadership, University of Saint Thomas, Saint Paul

M.A. Educational Leadership, College of Saint Thomas, Saint Paul

B.S. Elementary Education, Saint Cloud State University, Saint Cloud

Areas of Focus

Continuous School Improvement, Education Equity, Ethical Leadership, Implementation Science, Organizational Leadership, Professional Development, and School Law

Professional Licenses

Minnesota District Superintendent

Minnesota Principal K - 12

Minnesota Elementary Education 1 – 6

Professional Affiliations

Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals

National Association of Secondary School Principals

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Dr. Brookins began instructing at CSP in the Fall of 2013. Credited with being a “difference-maker who loves children," he transfers his passion for learning and people to educators aspiring to become leaders. Dr. Brookins has served as a principal in the Twin Cities for 21 years in both the inner city and suburbs. He currently serves as an Assistant Superintendent. He completed his doctoral studies at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities Campus in Educational Policy and Administration. His doctoral dissertation is titled Perceived Influences of Relationships between District and School Level Administrators on the Achievement of Urban Black Students. Emancipating change carries a deep meaning for Dr. Brookins as he serves children. As a servant-leader he realizes the importance of staying involved in the lives of his students throughout their entire educational journey. Dr. Brookins mentors leaders directly and indirectly as they make life-changing decisions or simply need words of motivation and encouragement. Sharing his experiences and perspectives often provides insight and options to their situations. Dr. Brookins is a husband and father of four sons. He is a man that is after God inwardly and continually seeks ways to better himself. Daily he works towards seeing to it that leaders strengthen their intellectual foundations via dialectical reasoning and critical self-reflection.

Academic Credentials

Ed.D. Educational Policy and Administration: University of Minnesota

M.Ed. Teacher Leadership: University of Minnesota

B.S. Secondary Education: Wiley College

Areas of Focus

Leadership Theory and Practice Leadership Development Leadership and Learning Equity and Change Instructional and Transformation Practice for Leaders

Professional Licenses

K-12 Principal

Superintendent

Professional Affiliations

MASSP NASSP BOSA

Publications and Presentations

See Curriculum Vitae

Email

brookins@csp.edu 

Dr. Robert Franchino joined the faculty of Concordia in 2010. Robert is a former technology coordinator and since 1999 has served as an Assistant Principal at Eastview High School. As a current practitioner, Dr. Franchino brings relevant experiences to learners. In doing so, he works with graduate students to both understand and implement various communication skills to create followership. At Eastview High School he is responsible for English Language Arts, Science, Media Center, music and dance, fine and performing arts, building/grounds and instructional technology. He also serves on the district (31,000 students) Technology Framework Steering Team as well as his school’s Equity Action Team. Dr. Franchino’s extensive background in technology and strategic planning has assisted educators in creating opportunities to better understand information technology and subsequently implementing in schools. In addition to his technology and leadership background, Dr. Franchino has also conducted research pertaining to student involvement in cocurricular activities and its effects on academic success, as well as extensive research associated with the successful implementation of online learning in secondary schools. He has also served on numerous dissertation review boards for doctoral candidates pursuing degrees in educational leadership.

Academic Credentials

B.S. Trenton State College

M.A. The College of New Jersey

Ed.S. Minnesota State University

Ed.D. Argosy University

Areas of Focus

Instructional Technology, Equity and Education, Ethical Leadership, Transformational Leadership, Communication, School Facilities, School Law, Public Policy and Governance, Teaching and Instruction, School Finance

Professional Affiliations

MASSP, NASSP

Dr. Alison Gillespie currently serves as Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning within the White Bear Lake Area Schools. Alison Gillespie has held a variety of school leadership roles in Minnesota including: High School Principal and District Level Principal on Special Assignment for White Bear Lake Area Schools, Associate Principal at Wayzata High School and Alternative High School Supervisor for various schools supporting students in Richfield and Minneapolis Public Schools. Alison started as a middle school and high school educator for English Learners in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Chandler, Arizona and Richfield, Minnesota prior to entering school leadership in 2004. Dr. Gillespie is a courageous equity-centered leader. She is passionate about transforming schools and aligning district systems to ensure high achievement and humanizing, culturally affirming experiences are realized consistently for each student. Alison is committed to organizational health and building a truly collaborative culture between district and building leaders. She is knowledgeable in leadership team development, strategic planning and continuous improvement. She serves as an adjunct professor, facilitates professional development for culturally responsive school leadership, and coaches principal interns. Dr. Gillespie holds national certifications in principal mentorship through the National Association of Elementary School Principals and instructional leadership from AVID and AASA. Alison holds a bachelor’s degree in Middle/Secondary Education and Spanish from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University, and Master’s and Ed.D in Organizational Leadership from Teacher’s College- Columbia University.

Academic Credentials

B.S. UW- La Crosse, M. Ed Arizona State University 

M. Ed Teacher's College- Columbia University, 

Ed.D- Teacher's College- Columbia University

Professional Licenses

K-12 Principal, 

Superintendent

Professional Affiliations

MASA, 

AASA

Dr. Jana Hennen-Burr joined Concordia University, St. Paul in the fall of 2019 as a Faculty of Practice member. Her duties include dissertation advisor, doctorate course instructor, doctorate coach, and University Supervisor for aspiring principals in the ED.S program. Jana retired from ISD 728 Elk River Area School District in June, 2021 which serves approximately 14,000 students and is the eighth largest school district in MN. In ISD 728, she has served as an elementary principal, high school principal and an Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. Prior to administration, Jana was a special education teacher and worked with students E-12 grades both in MN and Hawaii.

Academic Credentials

Doctor of Education Degree ( Ed.D.), Hamline University

Master's & Specialist Degrees, St. Cloud State University

Elementary Principal Licensure

Special Education Director Licensure

Superintendent Licensure

University of Minnesota Secondary

6-12 Principal Licensure

Bachelor of Science Degree, St. Cloud State University

Special Education Teacher k-12/age 21

Mild to Moderate Handicapped Licensure

Moderate to Severe Handicapped Licensure

Work Experience Coordinator Handicapped

Professional Licenses

Special Education Teacher

Mild to Moderate Handicapped Licensure

Moderate to Severe Handicapped Licensure

Work Experience Coordinator Handicapped

K-12 Principal Licensure

Special Education Director Licensure

Superintendent Licensure

Areas of Focus

Educational Leadership

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

Coaching & mentorship

Culture

Strategic Planning

Publications and Presentations

Transformational Leadership: Style, Mindset & Wisdom, 2013

Rural Principals Awareness of the Legal Requirements of ADA, 1995

Transition Issues for Rural Secondary Students With Moderate to Severe Disabilities, 1992

Dr. Kremer is a Contracted Faculty of Practice for Concordia University, serving as a University Supervisor for numerous principal interns each semester. He himself is the Principal of EP Online, a K-12 virtual school in the Eden Prairie school district serving 500+ students across the state of Minnesota. Previously, Dr. Kremer served as the Director of Curriculum & Learning for Eden Prairie Schools and as a K-12 District Language Arts & Social Studies Coordinator, Teacher, and Interventionist for the Columbia Public School district in Missouri. Dr. Kremer additionally is an adjunct professor for Missouri Online, where he teaches numerous literacy-based instructional methods courses to aspiring educators, and a member of the Board of Directors and a former Dean of Education for the American Legion Missouri Boys State, a civic education and leadership program for high school youth. Dr. Kremer lives in Eden Prairie with his wife, five children, and collie.

Academic Credentials

Truman State University: B.A. English (2005); M.A. English (2006); M.A.E. Education (2007); University of Missouri - Columbia: Ph.D. Curriculum & Instruction (2017); Concordia University - Ed.S. Educational Leadership (2019)

Professional Licenses

9-12 Language Arts Teacher (MO),

K-12 Principal (MN),

District Superintendent (MN)

Areas of Focus

Curriculum & Instruction;

Educational Leadership;

Virtual Education; Literacy

Professional Affiliations

Minnesota Association of School Administrators;

National Council of Teachers of English

Publications and Presentations

▪ Kremer, N. (2014). “Writing with Pictures: Comics and Connected Learning.” Teaching in the Connected Learning Classroom. Ed. Antero Garcia. Irvine, CA: Digital Media and Learning Research Hub.

▪ Kremer, N. & Sanders, S. “Shakespeare in 3D: Bringing the Bard to Life through New (Old) Media.” Voices from the Middle. Vol 18, Issue 4 (2012): New Literacies.

▪ Kremer, N. “How I Became a Convert to Online Learning.” Education Leadership. Vol 68, Issue 5 (2011): Teaching Screenagers.

Dr. Kelly Kudla has spent the last 20 years in education. She began as a fifth grade teacher at Forest Elementary school in Crystal. Other roles she held included instructional coach, behavior coach, administrative intern, and assistant principal. After 17 years in ISD281, Dr. Kudla moved to ISD728 and is currently the principal at Otsego Elementary School. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of WI-Madison, a Master of Arts in Education from Hamline University. She earned both a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and a Doctorate in Education through Concordia University. Currently, she lives in the metro area with her husband, two children, and dog. They spend a lot of time outdoors and watching sports, especially basketball and lacrosse. Her favorite activities include reading, running, entertaining, trying new things, and going on little adventures as a family. Dr. Kudla loves being an educator and believes in the importance of lifelong learning! She is thrilled to join Concordia University as a Faculty of Practice!

Academic Credentials

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education - University of WI-Madison Master of Arts in Education - Hamline University 

Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership - Concordia St. Paul 

Doctorate in Education - Concordia St Paul

Professional Licenses

Minnesota K-12 Principal, Teacher (1-6)

Areas of Focus

Elementary Education Science of Reading Family collaboration Equity Social emotional learning Data driven instruction Positive Behavior Intervention and Response

Professional Affiliations

MESPA, NESPA

Publications and Presentaitons

Dissertation: High-Quality Parent Teacher Relationships: Collaboration that Creates Culturally Relevant Educational Experiences for Students of Color

Email

kudlak@csp.edu

Dr. Kate Maguire is an experienced education leader who is passionate about the importance of education in improving social justice and in maintaining an informed citizenry to sustain our democracy. She is a life-long Minnesotan, native Iron Ranger, and third generation teacher. Dr. Maguire served Minnesota public school students for almost 40 years, most recently as the Interim Superintendent for Anoka Hennepin Schools, the largest school district in Minnesota. Dr. Maguire spent most of her educational career in Osseo Area Schools, Minnesota's fifth largest district, where she retired from the superintendent position in 2018. During her career in Osseo Area Schools, Dr. Maguire served in a variety of positions including teacher, principal, director of human resources, director of curriculum, and assistant superintendent before being named as superintendent in 2010. She was named 2014 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year by the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. As an instructor, Dr. Maguire aims to influence and develop leaders who are culturally responsive, technically proficient, skillfully adaptive, strategically courageous, and who are prepared to take action to transform organizations and communities. She aims to influence leaders of distinction.

Academic Credentials

Doctor of Organizational Leadership, Ed.D. University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN

Specialist in Education Leadership, Ed.S. University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN

Master of Arts Organizational Leadership and Administration, M.A. University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN

Bachelor of Arts Social Science/Education, B.A. College of St. Benedict, St. Joseph, MN

Professional Licenses

Minnesota District Superintendent

Minnesota Secondary Principal

Minnesota Teacher Social Studies

Areas of Focus

Equity

Leadership Development

Change Leadership

Professional Affiliations

Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA)

Dr. Stephen O’Connor has more than thirty-five years of experience in public education. He began his career as a classroom teacher and has held leadership positions as a building and district administrator, director of curriculum and instruction, and instructional technology.  His related experiences include facilitating and guiding school districts in the implementation of instructional technology. Stephen has extensive experience in planning for, and organization of, professional development and continuous improvement initiatives for school districts and organizations across Minnesota.  He has also served as an “examiner” for the National Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award Program. Stephen is currently an associate professor of education and administrator licensing programs (Ed.S. & Ed.D.) at Concordia University St. Paul. His membership in professional organizations includes ISTE, ASQ, ASCD, and MASA. 

Academic Credentials

• Doctor of Education Leadership, Ed.D.
  Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

• Specialist in Education Leadership, Ed.S.
  Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN

• Master of Music, M.M.
  University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Education, B.F.A.
  University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD

Areas of Focus

K-12 Education Leadership, Instructional Technology, Online Instruction, Adult Learning, Baldrige Performance Excellence, Professional Development, Education Leadership in Rural Settings, Community Partnering

Professional Licenses

Minnesota District Superintendent
Minnesota Secondary Principal
Minnesota Teaching K-12 Music Education

Professional Affiliations 

Association for Supervision and Curriculum (ASCD), American Society for Quality (ASQ), International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA)

Address: AD 331
Phone: 651-603-6258
Email: oconnor@csp.edu (Preferred)

Dr. Parr has been serving as a Contracted Faculty of Practice at Concordia University, St. Paul since 2019. His main focus is working with administrative interns, coaching EDD students and advising EDD students. Prior to serving the Concordia University, St. Paul community, Dr. Parr Served as the Director of Secondary Education and Human Resources Director in School District 196-Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan for 19 years. Dr. Parr also served the Hopkins Public Schools for 3 years as a Junior High School Principal. Prior to those experiences, Dr. Parr served the South Washington Country Schools as a Junior High School Principal, Junior High School Assistant Principal and High School Assistant Principal for 11 years. Dr. Parr began his teaching career teaching Special Education in the Bloomington Public Schools and then Intermediate School District 287 in western Hennepin County. Dr. Parr holds a Ph. D. from the University of Minnesota, a Master's of Education Degree from the University of Minnesota and a BS degree from Westminster College, Salt Lake City, Utah. Dr. Parr received an Outstanding Service Award when working in School District 196.

Academic Credentials

Ph. D. Educational Policy and Administration, University of Minnesota

M. Ed. Special Education, University of Minnesota

B.S. Westminster College, Salt Lake City, UT

Areas of Focus

Principal and Superintendent Internship

Supervision EDD Educational Leadership Coaching

EDD Advising

Professional Licenses

Superintendent

Secondary School Principal

Director of Special Education

Standard teaching certificate, Social Studies, Grades 7-12

Standard teaching certificate,

Learning Disabilities, Grades K-12 Standard teaching certificate,

Emotional Disturbance, Grades K-12

Professional Affiliations

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

Dr. Lynn Peterson is an active public school leader serving as Superintendent and Principal for the last 14 years. She has been an educator for over twenty years, working in traditional public districts, public charter district, and private schools. Dr. Peterson promotes literacy for all and works to close the opportunity gap. She is active in her community and serves on a number of boards. She is an advocate and champion for all learners and works with staff and future leaders at CSP to be student-centered, strong listeners, and reflective practitioners.

Academic Credentials

Ed.D. Educational Leadership, Concordia University Saint Paul

Ed.S. Educational Leadership, Capella University, Minneapolis

M.A. Education, University of Saint Thomas

B.A. Western State College, Gunnison, CO

Areas of Focus

Educational Leadership, Literacy, Knowledge Gap, School Culture and Climate, Succession Planning, Strategic Planning, Finance & Budgeting, Marketing, Instruction, Special Education, Policy and Law, Governance, Board Development.

Professional Licenses

K-12 Superintendent

K-12 Principal

K-12 Special Education, Specific Learning Disabilities

K-12 Physical Education

K-6 Elementary Education

5-8 Social Studies

Preprimary Education

Professional Affiliations

Minnesota Elementary School Principal Association Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development Minnesota Association of Charter Schools

Professional Publications and Presentations

Peterson, L. (2018). Can explicit teaching of a growth mindset in early elementary increase student ability (Order No. 10837770). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (2173229035). Retrieved from https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/can-explicit-teaching-growth-mindset-early/docview/2173229035/se-2

Email

lpeterson@csp.edu

Dr. Tammy Stellmach serves as a Contracted Faculty of Practice in the Department of Doctoral Studies in Education. Her professional career spans 34 years in public education, including 15 years as a classroom teacher and 18 years in leadership. She served as the assistant principal in the Brainerd School district for 13 years: eleven of those years at Forestview Middle School and two at Riverside Elementary School. The past five years she has been principal at Baxter Elementary School. She was an adjunct faculty member at Saint Mary’s University for six years in the Educational Leadership department. She recently helped design and facilitate construction of the new Baxter Elementary School.

Academic Credentials

Ed.D. in Educational Administration and Leadership St. Cloud State University, 2018

Sixth Year Program, Educational Administration and Leadership St. Cloud State University, 2004 M.S. Educational Administration and Leadership St. Cloud State University, 2001

B.S. Home Economics Education University of Minnesota, 1989

Areas of Focus

SEL,

Equity,

Elementary Education

Professional Licenses

District Superintendent Licensure

Principal, K-12 Licensure

Teaching Licensure

Professional Affiliations

NAESP

MESPA

Professional Awards & Acknowledgments

Minnesota Region Five Leader of Excellence Award from Sourcewell

Email

stellmach@csp.edu

Dr. Danielle C. Thompson is the Assistant Principal on Special Assignment at Fridley Public Schools working collaboratively with schools and district departments to support: ongoing work of implementing research-based social-emotional learning supports for students, positive school culture and climate, schoolwide culturally responsive teaching and learning, and professional development opportunities for staff. Dr. Thompson also serves as an assistant director of special education. Dr. Thompson has worked at Fridley Public Schools since 2014, serving as assistant principal for three years and dean of students for two years prior. With a background in special education, Dr. Thompson previously taught elementary school special education in Inver Grove Heights Public Schools for five years, and also served as an instructional leader for special education teachers. She served for four years as both an equity and PBIS team lead in Inver Grove Heights, where she analyzed behavioral data; developed, taught, and implemented Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions to teachers and students; and trained staff on culturally responsive teaching strategies. Dr. Thompson joined the CSP Faculty in 2018 and teaches graduate programs at Concordia University and serves as a member of the university’s Ed. S. Education Leadership Program review board. She earned her bachelors’ degree in elementary education from North Dakota State University (NDSU), a bachelors’ degree in special education from Minnesota State University at Moorhead, a master’s degree in educational leadership and a Doctorate of Education from Concordia University, as well as her administrative licensure (K-12 Principal) and special education director licensure, also from Concordia University.

In her personal time, she enjoys spending time with her husband John, her daughter Tylor, her son Tyshawn, and with her family. She enjoys watching and playing hockey, reading, spending time outside, and hanging out with friends.

Professional Credentials

1-6 Elementary Education- NDSU

K-12 Special Education- Minnesota State University Moorhead

Masters Educational Leadership- Concordia St. Paul

Educational Specialist with K-12 Principal License- Concordia St. Paul

Special Education Director- Concordia St. Paul

Doctorate of Education- Concordia St. Paul

Areas of Focus

Special Education

Secondary Administration

Racial Equity

SEL

Trauma-Informed Leadership

Differentiated Instruction

Professional Affiliations

MASSP

MASA

MASE

Dr. Justin Tiarks is the elementary school principal at St. Paul City School where he has served as a teacher and administrator since 2008. He has served as a Contracted Faculty of Practice in both the MA in Educational Leadership and MA in Trauma and Resiliency programs and currently supports the Situational Observation Interview process at the culmination of the Ed.S. program. Justin's passions and expertise lay in the field of trauma-informed education where he also serves as a consultant and speaker.

Professional Credentials

B.A. Elementary Education, Central College

M.A. Educational Leadership, Concordia University, St. Paul

Ed.S. K-12 Principal, Concordia University, St. Paul

Ed.D. Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Concordia University, St. Paul

Areas of Focus

Trauma-Informed School Leadership

Equity School Culture

Full-service Community-based Schools

Education Reform

Professional Publications and Presentations

Presentations: Leading Schools with Trauma in Mind, MASSP; Panel - Hope, Hardship and Healing in Public Schools: A conversation with Minnesota public education leaders, CIES

Dr. John Braun serves as Assistant Professor of Education in the Department of Doctoral Studies in Education. Prior to CSP, his leadership career spanned thirty-one years in the K-12 principalship. He was the principal of Barnum Elementary from 1988 – 1990. He served as principal of Lake Marion Elementary from 1990 – 2014 and as principal of Lakeville South High School from 2014 – 2019, both in Lakeville, MN. Additionally, he was an adjunct faculty member at Saint Mary’s University for twenty years in the Educational Leadership department and was the recipient of the SMU Outstanding Faculty Award.

Academic Credentials
Ed.D. Educational Leadership, University of Saint Thomas, Saint Paul

M.A. Educational Leadership, College of Saint Thomas, Saint Paul

B.S. Elementary Education, Saint Cloud State University, Saint Cloud

Areas of Focus

Continuous School Improvement, Education Equity, Ethical Leadership, Implementation Science, Organizational Leadership, Professional Development, and School Law

Professional Licenses

Minnesota District Superintendent

Minnesota Principal K - 12

Minnesota Elementary Education 1 – 6

Professional Affiliations

Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals

National Association of Secondary School Principals

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Dr. Ric Dressen joined the Concordia University faculty at the start of the 2017-18 school year as an Assistant Professor in the Education Doctorate program. He has served as Chairperson since Fall 2018. He concluded his school administrative services in June of 2017 after 25 years as a superintendent and a total of 36 years in administration. He was superintendent of Edina Public Schools in Edina, Minnesota – a first-ring, upper middle class, professional suburb on the southwest edge of Minneapolis – since July of 2006. Prior to this position and beginning in January 2000, he served as superintendent of Alexandria Public Schools in Alexandria, Minnesota; from 1992 through 1999, he served as superintendent of Waconia Public Schools in Waconia, Minnesota. His administrative career includes principalships in Waconia, Brooklyn Center, and St. Joseph, Minnesota. Dr. Dressen had been an adjunct professor at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota since 2000. He helped create and chair The Superintendency Institute, a gathering of Minnesota superintendents focused on advancing the role of leadership in public schools, and is a recipient of numerous professional awards in leadership and innovation. In 2003, Dressen chaired the Minnesota Finance Reform Task Force at the direction of Governor Tim Pawlenty.
In 2013, the Minnesota Association of School Administrators awarded him their Polaris Leadership Award for his service to the educational leadership of Minnesota. He was president of the Association in 2003-04. Dr. Dressen also served on a variety of leadership boards including the Board of Governors to the University of St. Thomas School of Engineering (St. Paul, MN), the Fairview Southdale Hospital Board of Directors (Edina, MN) and the Edina Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors (Edina, MN).

Academic/Professional Credentials

• Ed.D. Educational Administration, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

• M.S. and Specialist Degree, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud

• B.A. Elementary Education and Physical Education, Bemidji State University, Bemidji

• Minnesota Licenses: Elementary School Administration; District Superintendent

Areas Of Focus

Equity and Education, Ethical Leadership, Organizational Leadership, School Facilities, School Law, Public Policy and Governance, Educational Future Trends, Work/Life Blending, Teaching and Instruction, Public Finance and Time Management

Email: dressen@csp.edu (Preferred)

Dr. Oluwatoyin Akinde Fakuajo is a faculty member in the Department of Doctoral Studies in Education at Concordia University, St. Paul. She brings a practical approach to Leadership in Education, has the experience to bring course materials to life for students, and illustrates the blend between theory and practice, which gives students a mixture of academic excellence with professional acumen necessary for critical analysis skills needed in the workplace.

Academic Credentials

• Educational Administration (K-12 Principal),  Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

• Ed.D. Leadership, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

• M.A. Organizational Leadership, Bethel University

• B.S. Business Administration, University of Ibadan

Areas of Focus

Her interest includes research on the intersection of heutagogy and ergonagy as related to adult learners and the preparation of educational leaders, the anthropological approach to teaching and learning, and those underpinnings. Furthermore, on topics relating to educational assessments. More importantly, she enjoys facilitating the process in which students engage in critical thinking through inquiry and dialogue on evidence-based methods.

Selected Publications 

Akinde, O. A (2021). Post-Secondary Education Options and the Rate of Persistence to Graduate Studies: Trend between 2007 and 2019. International Journal of Higher Education, 6(4), 201- 205. 

Akinde, O. A. (2020). A Graduate Education Program's Look at Grading. Educational Research and Reviews, 15(3), 104-114. 

Akinde, O. A., Harr, D., & Burger, P. (2017). Field Experience: Experiential Learning as Complementary to the Conceptual Learning for International Students in a Graduate Teacher Education Program. International Journal of Higher Education, 11(4), 137- 151. 

Akinde, O. A. (2015). A Pilot Study of Students’ Learning Outcome using Didactic and Socratic Instructional Methods: An Assessment based on Bloom’s Taxonomy. Educational Research and Reviews, 10(21), 2821-2833 

Akinde, O. A. (2013). Acculturation of Nigerian Immigrants in Minnesota. Journal of Pan African Studies, 6(6), 181. 

Akinde, O. A. (2013). A qualitative study of factors surrounding high mortality in Nigeria. Science Journal of Sociology & Anthropology.

Akinde, O. A. (2010). A Study Comparing the Leadership and Management Characteristics of Associate Church Pastors and Mid-level Corporate Managers and Leaders: An Analysis Based on Member Feedback (Doctoral dissertation, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota). Call # 658.4092 A31 Barcode # 33500002225662 

Akinde, O. A. (2005). Managers & Leaders: Are They Different? (Capstone, Bethel University).

Address: AD 338

Phone: 651-641-8202
Email: akindefakuajo@csp.edu (Preferred) 

I am a native Minnesotan who served as parish pastor (ND, 1985-1996), Senior Editor (CPH, St. Louis, 1996-2002), Professor (CSP 2002-2013), and President & Academic Dean (CLS Edmonton, 2014-2024 into retirement).

Current Position

Academic Dean, President, and Professor Emeritus

Academic Credentials

Concordia University, St. Paul, MN BA 1981; Concordia Seminary St. Louis, MO MDiv 1985; Regent University VA, PhD 2002.

Areas of Focus

My research areas/interests and presentation arenas are functional leadership and management, organizational health, research and decision-making, and faith formation; I also consult on governance and strategic planning.

Professional Affiliations

LCMS and LCC Clergy Roster; Association of Theological Schools Presidents' Cluster; LCC Commission on Theology and Church Relations 2014-2023.

Professional Publications and Presentations

February 2024 NLOMA Conf Keynoter: Mission, Vision, Values; Collaborative Managing for Team Success; Principles for Leveraging Evaluation and Assessment for Good; The State of Christianity in North America; The Role of Camps in Faith Formation. September 2023 Alaska Lutheran Pastors' Conf: Paradoxically Lutheran; Using Metaphors for Effective Communication; The State of Christianity in North America. 2023 Spring Quest: 8-part series on being Paradoxically Lutheran. Publications: 2022 Lutheran Theological Review: Theses Toward Unity in the Church; 2019 Lutheran Theological Review: Theses Regarding the Sanctity of Human Life.

Dr. Jana Hennen-Burr joined Concordia University, St. Paul in the fall of 2019 as a Faculty of Practice member. Her duties include dissertation advisor, doctorate course instructor, doctorate coach, and University Supervisor for aspiring principals in the ED.S program. Jana retired from ISD 728 Elk River Area School District in June, 2021 which serves approximately 14,000 students and is the eighth largest school district in MN. In ISD 728, she has served as an elementary principal, high school principal and an Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. Prior to administration, Jana was a special education teacher and worked with students E-12 grades both in MN and Hawaii.

Academic Credentials

Doctor of Education Degree ( Ed.D.), Hamline University

Master's & Specialist Degrees, St. Cloud State University

Elementary Principal Licensure

Special Education Director Licensure

Superintendent Licensure

University of Minnesota Secondary

6-12 Principal Licensure

Bachelor of Science Degree, St. Cloud State University

Special Education Teacher k-12/age 21

Mild to Moderate Handicapped Licensure

Moderate to Severe Handicapped Licensure

Work Experience Coordinator Handicapped

Professional Licenses

Special Education Teacher

Mild to Moderate Handicapped Licensure

Moderate to Severe Handicapped Licensure

Work Experience Coordinator Handicapped

K-12 Principal Licensure

Special Education Director Licensure

Superintendent Licensure

Areas of Focus

Educational Leadership

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

Coaching & mentorship

Culture

Strategic Planning

Publications and Presentations

Transformational Leadership: Style, Mindset & Wisdom, 2013

Rural Principals Awareness of the Legal Requirements of ADA, 1995

Transition Issues for Rural Secondary Students With Moderate to Severe Disabilities, 1992

Dr. Joseph Hill is the Founder of The Higher Performance Group, a consultant group serving Lead Teams across PreK-12 and Higher Education purposed to optimize higher team performance. Dr. Hill has a wealth of experience in organizational leadership, human development, and teaching as a practitioner, educational leader, executive coach, author, and producer of practical workshops and video content for campus and district leaders across the globe. Joseph is a life enthusiast with a garage full of bicycles, kayaks, smelly trail running shoes, Nordic ski gear and several finisher medals from his retired IRONMAN days. In the fall season, you may find him in his tree stand catching up on his thinking or tracking through the prairie grass in search of adventure with his lab partner, Etta. As an artist, Joseph regularly performs in classical, contemporary, jazz, and sacred vocal performances through his gift of music. Joe and his wife Becky have been married for 31 years and have three adult children (all officially off the family cell phone plan) and two grandchildren. Becky is an instructional coach in the Forest Lake School District and the project manager of several remodel projects in full swing in their Stillwater home and Arizona retreat property. As a lifelong learner, Joseph holds a post-graduate degree in Educational Leadership, focusing on organizational culture and team performance. Dr. Hill earned his Master Professional Certification as an executive coach through the International Coach Federation. Joe has nearly 30 years of experience as a k-12 teacher, principal, and superintendent in Minnesota.

Academic Credentials

BA - Education: University of Minnesota-Morris

MA/Specialist - Educational Administration: St. Cloud State University

Ed.D - Educational Leadership: University of North Dakota

Professional Licenses

Licensed as a teacher, principal, and superintendent in Minnesota

Areas of Focus

Organizational Culture and Team Performance

Professional Publications and Presentations

Weekly Higher Performance Blog – https://www.higherperformancegroup.com/blog

Your Natural Leadership Profile: Knowing Yourself Well to Lead Yourself Better (2022)

Leading From Peace: A Foundational Framework to Optimize Higher Performance in Life and Leadership – In Press (2023).

Higher Performance Teams: A Foundational Field Guide to Cancel Average Team Performance - In Press (2023).

Hill, J. #Best in Class - 140 Bite-Sized Ideas for new teachers - An Actionable Business Journal. THinKaha App Book (2014).

Hill, J. #Servant Leader Principals 140 Bite-Sized Ideas for School Leaders to Encourage, Equip and Empower Thriving School Teams - An Actionable Business Journal. THinKaha App Book (2015).

Art Howard is the VP of Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Wiley, one of the world’s largest publishers and a global leader in scientific research and career-connected education. With 15 years of experience spanning the federal and private sectors, Art has held leadership roles in DEI, Equal Employment Opportunity, Human Resources, Affirmative Action, and Employee Relations. He began his career in the United States Army, where he served 6 years. Art has a passion for inclusion and diversity efforts and for leading initiatives that focus on improving how people feel in and about their organization. Art earned a Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Development from University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, a Master’s Degree in HR from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland. Art currently serves on the board of Directors for TreeHouse, a non-profit organization with the mission of ending hopelessness among teens. Art resides in Minnesota, where he lives with his wife Kate and two daughters Ava (11) and Sienna (8). Aside from spending time with his family, Art enjoys traveling, hunting, hiking, and biking.

Academic Credentials

Earned a Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Development from University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, a Master’s Degree in HR from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland.

Areas of Focus

Diversity, Policy, Leadership, Conflict Management, Employee Relations, Human Resources

Dr. Nikoi has 23 years of experience at the nexus of international development, livelihoods, and higher education. Her primary focus is on the role of non-formal education and adult learning in transformative learning. She has extensive experience in gender integration, youth livelihoods, research methods, and assessment. She is a senior qualitative researcher and gender specialist with Miske Witt and Associates International, where she coordinates program activities to promote gender equity and equality. As a faculty of practice at Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota, Dr. Nikoi has developed leadership and education curricula and taught in-person and online cohorts of students in the educational leadership program. She teaches courses on scholarly analysis, research methods, and leadership ethics. In addition, she work with students to guide them through the writing process and facilitate the development of their research topics.

Academic Credentials

Ph.D., University of Minnesota

M.A., Ohio University

B.A., Hope College

Areas of Focus

Non-formal education, adult education, youth and livelihoods, gender and education, qualitative research

Professional Affiliations

Comparative and International Education Society

Professional Publications and Presentations

Nikoi, A., Chachage, K., Pellowski Wiger, & Miske, S. (2022, April). Support for adolescent girls’ education in the era of COVID-19: A case study of three school systems in Tanzania. Paper presented at the Comparative and International Education Society Annual Meeting, Minneapolis, MN, April 2022).

Nikoi, A. (2021, April). Negotiating understandings of gender in data collection and analysis of Parent Teacher Partnerships in Tanzania. Paper presented at Comparative and International Education Society (virtual).

Dickerson, L.A., Farrell, A., Nikoi, A., & O’Connor, S. (2021, April). Seeking strategic renewal during and after a crisis: Lessons from online transitions in higher education. Paper presented at the Comparative and International Education Society (virtual).

Bamattre, R., Schowengerdt, B., Nikoi, A., & DeJaeghere, J. (2019). Time Matters: The Potential and Pitfalls of Conducting Longitudinal Mixed Methods Approaches in Program Evaluation. International Journal of Social Research Methodology. DOI: 10.1080/13645579.2018.1553674

Nikoi, A., Willemsen, L., & Bamattre, R. (2018, April). Moving Beyond Quotes and Anecdotes: Communicating qualitative evidence in evaluation. Workshop presented at the Communicating Evidence for Sustainable Development conference. Wageningen University and Research, The Netherlands.

Nikoi, A. (2017, March). Vocational Training and Agency among Kenyan Youth. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the Comparative and International Education Society. Atlanta, GA.

Nikoi, A. (2016). Vocational training and agency among Kenyan youth. In J. DeJaeghere, J. Josic & K. McCleary (Eds.), Education and youth agency: Qualitative cases in global contexts (233- 249). Switzerland: Springer International Publishers.

Dr. Parr has been serving as a Contracted Faculty of Practice at Concordia University, St. Paul since 2019. His main focus is working with administrative interns, coaching EDD students and advising EDD students. Prior to serving the Concordia University, St. Paul community, Dr. Parr Served as the Director of Secondary Education and Human Resources Director in School District 196-Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan for 19 years. Dr. Parr also served the Hopkins Public Schools for 3 years as a Junior High School Principal. Prior to those experiences, Dr. Parr served the South Washington Country Schools as a Junior High School Principal, Junior High School Assistant Principal and High School Assistant Principal for 11 years. Dr. Parr began his teaching career teaching Special Education in the Bloomington Public Schools and then Intermediate School District 287 in western Hennepin County. Dr. Parr holds a Ph. D. from the University of Minnesota, a Master's of Education Degree from the University of Minnesota and a BS degree from Westminster College, Salt Lake City, Utah. Dr. Parr received an Outstanding Service Award when working in School District 196.

Academic Credentials

Ph. D. Educational Policy and Administration, University of Minnesota

M. Ed. Special Education, University of Minnesota

B.S. Westminster College, Salt Lake City, UT

Areas of Focus

Principal and Superintendent Internship

Supervision EDD Educational Leadership Coaching

EDD Advising

Professional Licenses

Superintendent

Secondary School Principal

Director of Special Education

Standard teaching certificate, Social Studies, Grades 7-12

Standard teaching certificate,

Learning Disabilities, Grades K-12 Standard teaching certificate,

Emotional Disturbance, Grades K-12

Professional Affiliations

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

Dr. Jean Rock is an innovative educator with a passion for teaching and leadership. She has more than 30 years of professional and academic leadership and management experience ranging from positions in support services to nonprofit management to senior-level leadership. She is a devoted lifelong learner who imparts a hunger for knowledge to her students. 

Dr. Rock has served in multiple leadership roles at Concordia University since her arrival in 1986, including her current post in the Education Leadership Department. She previously served as chair of the Department of Leadership and Management, Associate Dean of undergraduate studies, co-chair of the Organizational Management and Communication Leadership program, and Marketing Coordinator. She is a regular presenter at regional workshops and conferences. 

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS

Ph.D., Education, Training and Performance Improvement, Capella University 

M.A., Advertising and Journalism, University of Minnesota 

B.A., Communications, Bemidji State University

Thrivent Fellow

Strengths Coach Certification 

ACADEMIC FOCUS
Leadership and Management,
Organizational Behavior,
Values and Ethics,
Talent Management 

PROFESSIONAL PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

Rock, J. (2018-2023). Social Media Coordinator. Lutheran Church Canada - Concordia Lutheran Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta Canada.

Rock, J. (2022, November). Leading with our strengths. Workshop and presentation, Concordia Lutheran Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta Canada.

Rock, J. & Walcheski, M. (2021, April). The effect of the Coronavirus Pandemic on graduate education. Presentation at the General Conference of the 2021 Higher Learning Commission Annual Conference. 

Rock, J. & Walcheski, M. (2021, March). Action steps to aid and retain graduate students during a pandemic.  Presentation at the 77th annual meeting of the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools, Chicago, IL.

Rock, J. & Walcheski, M. (2020, October). The effect of the Coronavirus Pandemic on graduate education at Concordia University, St. Paul. Presentation at the 84th annual meeting of the Association of Lutheran College Faculties.

Rock, J. (2020, February). Consortiums and systems governance. Research, report, and presentation requested by Lutheran Church Missouri Synod College University System Task Force regarding nationwide reorganization.

Rock, J. (2020, January). Higher education governance. Research, report, and presentation requested by LCMS CUS Task Force regarding nationwide reorganization.

Rock, J. (2019, September). Why won’t this problem go away? Identifying and solving the root cause. Presentation. Graduate Honor’s Society Webinar, Concordia University, St. Paul, MN.

Rock, J. & Frye, B. (2018, August). Online students: Higher education’s “silent” population. Presentation at the 83rd annual meeting of the Association of Lutheran College Faculties, Concordia University, St. Paul, MN.

Rock, J. & Manderscheid, S. (2018, April). Facilitating change: An academic imperative.  Presentation at the annual Spring Leadership Institute, St. Cloud, MN.

Rock, J. & Manderscheid, S. (2017, November). A leader’s role in facilitating change. WebEx Presentation. Emerging Issues in Business Forums. Concordia University Alumni Office, St. Paul, MN. 

Hanson, T., Rock, J., & Schuessler, J. (2016, October). Strengths coaching to articulate purpose for career, service, and in relationships. Presented at the 81st annual meeting of the Association of Lutheran College Faculties, Concordia University, Mequon, WI.

Rock, J. (2015). Self-Assessment for Ministry Leaders. In T. Ries and B. Corrie (Eds.), Leading with the spirit: A handbook on leadership and ministry for clergy (pp.  26-44). Lutheran University Press.

Hanson, T. & Rock J. (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012). Ethical Considerations for Young Adults. Annual presentation for Twin Cities West Chamber of Commerce members and high school students. Minnetonka, MN.

Rock, J. (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012). Personal Leadership Prism: Understanding Your Leadership Style. Presentation at the Advanced Leadership Seminar for Nigerian Public Executives, St. Paul, MN.

Rock, J. (2009). Recruitment and Training of Adjunct Faculty Members. Presentation at the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs Region 4 Conference, St. Paul, MN.

Dr. Randy Smasal has been working in Education for 31 years and currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent for Edina Public Schools in Edina, Minnesota. Randy spent his first 12 years of his career as a middle school and high school science teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District in Minnesota. Randy has since worked in a central office roles coordinating curriculum, providing professional training, integrating technology systems in education, implementing Professional Learning Communities, training on Change Management and facilitating strategic planning. A strategic approach to STEAM integration, career Pathways, implementation of Culturally Proficient School Systems and a reduction of the achievement gap is the focus of his current work in Edina Public Schools. Randy has presented at local, state and national conferences and has two publications on efficient use of time in the classroom and inquiry based science teaching.

Academic Credentials

Ed.D., Educational Administration and Leadership, St. Cloud State University;

Ed.S., Principal and Superintendent Licences, St. Cloud State University;

M.Ed., Educational Administration, University of MN;

B.S., Biology and Chemistry Education, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire

Professional Licenses

Superintendent, K-12 Principal License, Secondary Science

Areas of Focus

Administrative Leadership, Change Management

Professional Affiliations

MASSP, MASA, ASCD, Edina Rotary

Professional Publications and Presentations

Publications: Dissertation: A Case Study of Activate, An Executive Function Intervention Program, 2017; Smasal, R. Et. Al., Promoting Science Literacy Through Inquiry: Helping Students Develop, Conduct and Share Research Projects, Iowa Science Teachers Journal, Vol. 32(4)., 2005; Excerpt: Closing the Research Practice Gap: How a Research Based Rational Influenced My Teaching, P.8, 2003; Smasal, R., et. al., Managing Each Minute, Science Teacher Magazine 61(6), pp. 30-34, 1994

Presentations: Change Management, Edina Public Schools; Personalized Learning, Reimagine MN; Personalized Learning Keynote, Personalized Learning Summitt, Manhattan Beach Schools

Dr. Wangsness Willemsen’s teaching, research and practice are aimed at ensuring schooling better supports equity and wellbeing for students and educators alike. She serves as Associate Professor of Education and Dissertation Coordinator in the Department of Doctoral Studies in Education. Recently named a Fulbright Global Scholar, Dr. Wangsness Willemsen is on sabbatical for the 2023-2024 academic year, conducting research on climate change and education in Tanzania.

Dr. Wangsness Willemsen is an anthropologist of education whose research is focused on comparative education, international development, education in emergencies, gender, and research methods. Her current Fulbright project, a partnership with Dr. Elly Ligate and ecologist colleagues from Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania, examines the responses of teachers, students, families, and communities to extreme climate variability in northern Tanzania.  This collaborative research is intended to reveal the needs of communities affected by climate change as well as educational innovations that may be adapted for other contexts. Dr. Wangsness Willemsen has been conducting research on schooling in Tanzania for over a dozen years. Her doctoral dissertation, an ethnography of a secondary school for girls aimed at empowerment conducted with Judith Merinyo, received the Gail Kelly Award for Outstanding Dissertation from Comparative and International Education Society.

Dr. Wangsness Willemsen recently conducted two US-based, longitudinal studies focused on public teachers’ experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic. The first, together with Dr. Elisheva Cohen of Indiana University, was an examination of elementary teachers’ experiences during distance, hybrid, and in-person phases of the pandemic. This research was awarded an Educational Research Service Project Grant from the American Educational Research Association. She also conducted a mixed-methods study of a school district’s implementation of trauma-informed practices together with Dr. John Braun and CSP doctoral students Kris Scallon and Justin Tiarks. Emphasizing public-facing scholarship during the pandemic, Dr. Wangness Willemsen was published and/or interviewed by diverse media outlets including The Conversation, USA Today, MinnPost, Chicago Sun Times, The 19th, and the New York Times.

Within the Department of Doctoral Studies in Education, Dr. Wangsness Willemsen focuses on supporting Ed.D. students’ dissertation research and teaching courses on research methods and epistemologies, equity and diversity, ethics and educational leadership. She created the department’s Dissertation Dashboard, an interactive website aimed at demystifying the dissertation process and product. She is proud to have advised dozens of Concordia’s Ed.D. students.

As an international education expert, Dr. Wangsness Willemsen has consulted with institutions such as United Nations Girls’ Educational Initiative, United States Agency for International Development (USAID), World Vision, CARE International, Miske Witt and Associates (MWAI), and Project Zawadi Tanzania. She is currently a gender specialist consultant for  Jifunze Uelewe, a USAID activity in Tanzania. She serves on the board of directors of Mwangaza Education for Partnership and, until recently, was on the board of directors of Project Zawadi, organizations which partner with Tanzanian educators to support strengthened educational quality and equity in Tanzanian communities.

Previously Dr. Wangsness Willemsen was at the University of Minnesota, where she taught courses in comparative education and narrative inquiry, worked on issues of educational equity and teacher training, co-led a study of adolescence and gender relations in Tanzania, and led qualitative research for a longitudinal, mixed-methods evaluation of educational initiatives in East Africa. Prior to joining higher education, she worked as an English language teacher and ELL coordinator in diverse high school settings ranging from urban, suburban and rural Minnesota to urban and rural Tanzania.

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS

• PhD, Educational Policy and Administration (Comparative and International Development Education concentration), University of Minnesota

• MEd, Second Languages and Cultures (ELL teaching), University of Minnesota

• BA, Anthropology and Philosophy, Luther College

AREAS of FOCUS
Comparative and international education; gender and international development; anthropology of education; qualitative methodologies; narrative inquiry; equity and education; teaching and learning; educational leadership; research ethics.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

• Comparative and International Education Society

• American Educational Research Association

• American Anthropological Association

• Gender and Education Association

• Mwangaza Education for Partnership Board of Directors

Address: AD 333
Email: wangsnesswillemsen@csp.edu (Preferred)

Dr. Theresa Thao-Yang joined Concordia University, St. Paul in the spring of 2022 as a Contracted Faculty of Practice member. Theresa is currently the Principal at Nokomis Montessori, North Campus, in St. Paul after being the PreK-8 Assistant Principal and Elementary Principal at Community School of Excellence, a Hmong charter school in St. Paul. Prior to administration, Theresa was employed with the North St. Paul, Maplewood, Oakdale School District #622 from 2006 to 2021 as a kindergarten and first-grade teacher, as well as a K-5 EL teacher.

Academic Credentials

Ed.D. Educational Leadership, Concordia University St. Paul

Ed.S. Education, Concordia University St. Paul

English as a Second Language, University of St. Thomas

M.A. Education with K-12 Reading Endorsement, Concordia University St. Paul

B.A. Elementary Education, Concordia University St. Paul

Professional Licenses

K-12 Principal,

K-12 Reading, K-12 EL

Areas of Focus

English Language Learners, Mental Health, Trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Trauma-Informed Teachers, Schools & Communities, Educational Research