NELA

Oct 26, 2022

EdNC: NELA celebrates 10 years of preparing principals

Bonnie Fusarelli remembers the first cohort of N.C. State University’s Educational Leadership Academy (NELA). She had a big jar in her office, and when that cohort graduated in 2012, she put a marble in for each new principal prepared. She told herself that when the jar was full, her work would be done. Instead, she got a bigger jar. 

Oct 19, 2022

‘ I Knew They Did Things Differently:’ NC State Educational Leadership Academy Helps Educators Become Strong School Administrators

Graduates of the NC State Educational Leadership Academy (NELA) reflect on how the program prepared them to be an effective administrator, the lessons they still draw on in their roles and how they continue to support one another after graduation. 

Apr 27, 2022

Jessica Richardson ’15, ’22MSA: ‘I Chose Education Because I Believe That Each Student Deserves an Exceptional Education from Champion Teachers Who Advocate for Them’

When Jessica Richardson ’15, ’22MSA decided she wanted to grow more as an educator, she enrolled in the NC State College of Education's School Administration program. Now, as she graduates, she feels she prepared her for the next step in her career, where she will serve as an assistant principal. 

Apr 22, 2022

Remembering NC State’s Educational Leadership Academy Executive Coach Freda Cole

Freda Cole, an executive coach with NC State’s Educational Leadership Academy (NELA), passed away on April 18, 2022. Cole was a well-loved, former longtime principal in Wake County known for her… 

Dec 7, 2021

Jacqueline Perry-Higgs ‘21EDD: ‘I Have a Desire to Impact Teaching and Learning by Supporting Teachers and Administrators as They Diligently Work to Change the Lives of Children’

With a passion for curriculum and instruction, Jacqueline Perry-Higgs ‘21EDD joined the Northeast Leadership Academy’s first Ed.D. in Educational Administration and Supervision cohort. Now, she plans to apply what she learned in the program to her current position and to potential future roles as either an assistant superintendent or chief academic officer. 

Nov 22, 2021

How Can School Principals Provide Effective Leadership During Difficult Times? By Practicing the ‘Three C’s,’ Says Professor Lance Fusarelli

NC State College of Education Professor Lance Fusarelli likens school principals to captains of a ship: responsible for everything that occurs under their watch. This responsibility comes with unique challenges that have been exacerbated by issues like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

Oct 20, 2021

$4.5 Million Grant Will Help College of Education’s Innovative, Award-winning Principal Preparation Program Prepare More School Leaders

The NC State College of Education will be able to continue preparing future school leaders for high-needs schools through $4.5 million in funding for its innovative principal preparation program through the NC Principal Fellows Program. 

Jul 29, 2021

Nash County Public Schools 2021-2022 Principal of the Year Timothy Mudd ’13MSA Recognized for Success in Creating Opportunities for Students

Timothy Mudd ’13MSA wanted to coach high school basketball. But while that was his goal when he launched his education career, it didn’t take long for his purpose to change. His new purpose soon became ensuring all students, especially low-income students and students of color, received the opportunities they needed to succeed. 

Jul 14, 2021

Focus on Mentorship Leads to Laura Wilson-Wadsworth ’18MSA Being Named Franklin County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year

When Laura Wilson-Wadsworth ’18MSA was named Franklin County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year, she was overwhelmed by the emails, phone calls and socially distanced visits she received. Her favorite note came from a student she had mentored for over three years, a testament to the work she’s done mentoring students and teachers at Bunn High School. 

Apr 26, 2021

Nash County Elementary School Assistant Principal of the Year Leo Nieves ‘18MSA: ‘It is My Goal to Help Make the Educational Experience for All Involved a Positive One’

As a first-year teacher, Leo Nieves ’18MSA was afraid to ask for help because he didn’t want to look like he didn’t know what he was doing. That was the biggest mistake he ever made. Now, as assistant principal at Benvenue Elementary School in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, he wants to help other teachers be successful.