After researching doctoral programs across the country, Jennifer Jarrett ’24PHD said she decided on the NC State College of Education due to its reputation for preparing transformative educational leaders.
Last December, Jarrett earned her Ph.D. in the Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development educational evaluation and policy analysis (EEPA) concentration, and now, she is an assistant professor of educational leadership at Western Carolina University.
Jarrett will teach her first classes there this fall. She said she’s excited to collaborate with other scholar-practitioners at WCU to prepare the next generation of leaders for North Carolina schools.
On Why I Chose Education: Because of my own experiences as a Black female student in public schools — experiences that are often overlooked, yet rich with insight and strength. These voices carry a depth of knowledge that educational leaders must embrace to authentically and effectively address systemic challenges.
On How Education Shaped Me: Education has been a pathway to not only understanding the world around me but also toward discovering my place within it. It has empowered me to confront educational challenges and work toward possibilities that uplift future generations — or, as one of my dissertation participants so beautifully put it, education continues to teach me how to be a “good ancestor.”
On What I Enjoyed the Most About My Time with NC State’s College of Education: The unwavering support. During moments of doubt, both students and faculty reminded me of my purpose and the importance of this work. Their encouragement reinforced my commitment to serving as a tool for marginalized students and creating opportunities where their voices can thrive.
On What Others Should Know about NC State’s College of Education: The educational evaluation and policy analysis program is both rigorous and transformative. It offers more than just a degree — you leave with a renewed sense of clarity, purpose and a powerful support network. This program truly lives up to the words: “The strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack.”
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