Plymouth State University

The 12 members of the first-ever Plymouth State University doctoral degree program with PSU President Sara Jayne Steen.

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-Plymouth State University has inaugurated its Doctor of Education program with a dinner celebrating the 12 members of the Doctor of Education’s (EdD) initial class.

The Doctor of Education in Learning, Leadership and Community is designed for experienced practitioners and working professionals, including teachers, administrators, counselors, and individuals in higher education, related community agencies and organizations.

PSU President Sara Jayne Steen told the students, staff and faculty that the new degree program is especially significant for the institution because it required the state legislature to approve doctoral authority for PSU in a bill that was passed last year.

“The program builds on our historic commitment to excellence in education and was the logical next step for PSU in serving the citizens of the state,” Steen said.

“Developed in collaboration with the state’s educators, the program is accessible and flexible in that it allows educators to complete a degree while employed,” Steen added. “It prepares them to be agents of change in their communities, to support research and innovation that will lead to improved practice in New Hampshire and beyond.”

The program will enhance the leadership capacity of current and aspiring education professionals through the expansion of knowledge and the refinement of skills; encourage creative scholarship, reflection and inquiry on professional practice; examine global aspects of leadership and its impact on society; prepare educators to be system leaders in their communities; and support and advance the research that contributes to educational innovation and reform.

Dr. Ken Heuser, coordinator of PSU’s Educational Leadership Programs, said the doctoral program is wonderful for the University.

“It’s a new beginning, there is a strong need for this program, and I believe it will be very successful,” Heuser said.

Doctoral student Ginger Lever said the EdD program provides opportunities to those seeking greater expertise in education.

“It’s an opportunity to move ahead in my career, to develop the skills and understanding that will prepare me for better things in higher education,” Lever said.

New Hampshire Commissioner of Education Virginia Barry, who has held numerous positions at Plymouth State from professor to provost, was the keynote speaker. She told the group that they are part of a special moment.

“This doctoral program is an outstanding example of PSU’s commitment to educational access at the advanced degree level,” Barry said.

“PSU has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to providing opportunities for school personnel and community leaders to continue their education while continuing their important work in our schools and communities.”

For more information about this or other PSU graduate degree programs, contact the College of Graduate Studies at (603) 535-2479 or plymouth.edu/graduate/doctoral

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu