Graduate Research Lecture Series 

Section Overview & Impact

Each spring, I host the Graduate Research Lecture Series, an initiative that brings nationally recognized scholars to present their current work and engage in dialogue with graduate students, faculty, and community partners. Designed as both a professional learning experience and a scholarly exchange, the series provides students with direct access to thought leaders in education and related fields. Through these events, graduate students sharpen their scholarly voice, deepen their understanding of critical issues in education, and connect classroom learning to ongoing research and policy debates.

Since 2020, the Lecture Series has featured 20 nationally recognized scholars representing federal agencies, research universities, and community organizations. Collectively, these speakers have addressed pressing themes including equity, leadership, disability, family engagement, and the carceral state. Each session draws active participation from graduate students, who engage in discussion, pose critical questions, and apply insights to their own professional contexts. The series has become a hallmark of my graduate teaching and a signature contribution to the intellectual life of our program. This convening provides students with opportunities to see themselves as emerging scholars and leaders, while also fostering cross-institutional partnerships and strengthening Xavier’s reputation as a space where national conversations on education take place.

Explore the Lecture Series by Semester

Click a semester below to view the list of speakers and presentations:

Closing Reflection

This record demonstrates the sustained growth and impact of the Graduate Research Lecture Series, showcasing its role as a signature contribution to my graduate teaching, a catalyst for student engagement, and a platform for national scholarly dialogue.