“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela 

Shaping Education: From Pioneers to Advocates 

Education has long been a cornerstone of human civilization, shaping the course of society across generations. Educational pioneers like Horace Mann, who championed free public education, and Maria Montessori, who revolutionized individualized learning, laid the foundation for educational reform in the 19th century. Their work paved the way for modern leaders to continue shaping the system, bringing innovative solutions to the challenges of today’s classrooms.  

Education is an ever-evolving force shaping our future. From policy changes to technological innovations, modern educational leaders play a critical role in shaping how learning is delivered, accessed, and improved. In this article, you’ll get to know five individuals whose advanced degrees in educational leadership have helped them drive real-world change. 

Dr. Vicki Phillips: Driving Systemic Change in Education 

Dr. Vicki Phillips is an education consultant whose prior roles include director of education for the College Ready program at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and chief education officer for National Geographic. Now serving as the CEO for the National Center on Education and the Economy, Phillips has been a key advocate for innovative learning strategies, such as: 

  • Enhancing teacher effectiveness. 
  • Integrating technology to enrich learning. 
  • Empowering student leadership to drive community change. 

With a Doctor of Education degree in international leadership and educational leadership and management from the University of Lincoln, Phillips has held multiple leadership roles, including serving as superintendent of Portland (Oregon) public schools. Her influence has directly impacted how school systems evaluate teacher performance and integrate personalized learning strategies to close achievement gaps. 

Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond: Advancing Education 

As president of the California State Board of Education, Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond has significantly influenced education policy and reform in the United States. Holding a Doctor of Education in urban education from Temple University, she has dedicated her career to:  

  • Improving teacher preparation programs. 
  • Reforming student assessment methods. 
  • Implementing data-driven education policies. 

A renowned academic, Darling-Hammond has authored numerous books and research articles advocating that all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, receive quality education.  

Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez: Transforming Hartford Public Schools 

Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez, the superintendent and CEO of Hartford public schools, has over 25 years of experience in educational leadership. Throughout her tenure, she has implemented initiatives aimed at: 

  • Strengthening student engagement initiatives. 
  • Expanding community partnerships. 
  • Enhancing school performance through data-driven strategies. 

By implementing innovative student-centered leadership models, Dr. Torres-Rodriguez has reshaped how urban school districts approach leadership, fostering a culture of accountability and inclusion. 

Dr. Sebetha Jenkins: Trailblazer in Higher Education 

Dr. Sebetha Jenkins served as the tenth president of Jarvis Christian University, becoming the first woman to hold that position. She holds a Doctor of Education in educational administration from Mississippi State University. Throughout her career, Dr. Jenkins has been recognized for: 

  • Addressing budget crises with strategic financial planning. 
  • Expanding student enrollment and retention efforts. 
  • Advancing infrastructure and technology for distance learning. 

Her leadership played a crucial role in developing distance-learning programs that expanded access to higher education for rural and underserved students. She was later inducted into the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame for her contributions to higher education reform. 

Dr. Harrison Keller: University President With a Vision 

Dr. Harrison Keller, a sixth-generation Texan, became the president of the University of North Texas in August 2024. With a Ph.D. from Georgetown University, Dr. Keller has an extensive background in education policy, with a focus on: 

  • Aligning education with workforce needs through Talent Strong Texas. 
  • Reforming community college funding for student success. 
  • Expanding access to college-level courses for high school students. 

Through strategic partnerships with school districts and state policymakers, he has created pathways for career readiness programs that help students transition into the workforce more efficiently. 

Make a Long-Term Impact Through Educational Leadership 

Do these stories inspire you? If so, a master’s degree in educational leadership can open doors to impactful careers, whether in K-12 schools, higher education, or policymaking. 

With an educational leadership degree, you can: 

  • Advance into roles such as principal, superintendent, or district administrator. 
  • Lead initiatives that improve teacher effectiveness and student achievement. 
  • Shape education policies that promote innovation. 

For those looking to step into the realm of educational leadership, The University of Texas Permian Basin’s nationally accredited online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership provides the perfect foundation.  

Flexible Online Learning for Future Leaders 

UT Permian Basin’s online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership is flexible and career-focused, equipping educators with the administrative, strategic, and leadership skills needed to drive meaningful change in education. As aspiring principals, superintendents, and policy advocates, graduates of UTPB emerge prepared to lead with vision and purpose. 

As UTPB alumna Barbara Triplett shared: 

“Every time you have an opportunity to impact a young learner — help build connections, develop their brain, and lay a foundation for future success — you have the chance to make a real impact.” 

Our online MA in educational leadership program aligns with Principal as Instructional Leader certification competencies, preparing graduates to meet state standards for school leadership. 

With a fully online format and a 30-credit curriculum, educators can advance their careers while earning their degree in as little as one year. Faculty members are supportive and responsive, helping students develop to their fullest potential. 

Take the next step in your educational leadership journey! Explore UTPB’s program today.