College of Education Doctoral Student Named Jackson Scholar
Doctoral student Rachael Stewart conducts research on African American female college students and their journey toward degree attainment.
“I have a great passion towards helping the underserved student population in higher education.”
Rachael Stewart, a doctoral student in San Diego State University’s Ed.D. in PK-12 Educational Leadership program, was named a national scholar by the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA) Jackson Scholars Network.
Established in 2003, the two-year program was named in honor of the late Barbara L. Jackson, a long-time educator, scholar, mentor and administrator credited for her work establishing doctoral programs at historically black institutions.
The program provides formal networking, mentoring and professional development training for graduate students of color who intend to become professors of educational leadership.
“I am honored and humbled. I am most excited about the networking, professional development, and mentorship that comes with this opportunity,” said Stewart, who is also the department coordinator in the SDSU College of Education’s Department of Educational Leadership.
“I feel blessed to be able to meet other scholars like me who have similar educational leadership aspirations whether in K-12 or higher education,” added Stewart.
Stewart is currently conducting research on African American female college students and their journey toward degree attainment.
“In everything I do, my goal is to help others. I have a great passion towards helping the underserved student population in higher education,” said Stewart, who enjoys spending time with her husband and her three boys—ages 4, 5 and 6—traveling and frequenting the beach. “My goal is to contribute towards equitable access for this student population through change in institutional culture and initiatives.”
The University Council for Educational Administration “has facilitated the development of a robust pipeline of faculty and graduate students of color in the field of educational leadership. As a result, Barbara Jackson Scholars and Alumni enhance the field of educational leadership and UCEA with their scholarship and expertise.”
