Testimonials from Fresno State Doctoral Students
The Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership at Fresno State changed the way I think and look at systems as a leader. It has given me the tools to make an impact on education beyond my own school setting to reach students throughout the valley and beyond.
~Dr. John Hannigan, 2015
Principal
Sanger Unified School District
The doctoral program at Fresno State provided me opportunities to grow as a leader. I obtained a greater understanding of systems theory and how to improve on an existing system. We were taught to take a critical look at research to determine what would and would not apply in our positions. More importantly, I had the opportunity to learn from my colleagues in other districts, which challenged (and sometimes changed) my view of education. I wouldn’t be where I am without this program.
~Dr. Adrian E. Varanini, 2011
Director, Special Education/SELPA
Fresno Unified School District
I am honored to have been selected to and to have completed the Joint Doctoral Program in Education Leadership (JDPEL) at Fresno State. The classes I took, the professors I had, and the focus of the program all contributed to making me the educational leader that I am today. I have been able to utilize the knowledge that I gained to improve systems and processes for marginalized and at-risk students in the district I work for and for students around the state of California. Additionally, the knowledge I gained in research methods and statistics has allowed me to support academic improvement efforts within my district by helping analyze various programs and their effects on student achievement, attendance, and discipline. While there are many options for Ed.D. degrees around the valley and on-line, I do not believe they compare to the quality of education that I received through the program at Fresno State. If you are considering your Ed.D. degree I strongly encourage you to consider the Fresno State program. It may not be the easiest, but the work you put into the program will change you as an instructional leader.
~Dr. Dennis Wiechmann, 2008
Director of Child Welfare and Attendance
Sanger Unified School District
The doctoral program helped me grow personally and professionally as an educational leader. This program gave me the skills I needed to make a difference for all students. It also made me realize the importance of my role as a leader in education beyond the completion of my degree.
~Dr. Jessica Djabrayan Hannigan, 2011
Educational Consultant and Doctoral Program Facilitator
Fresno State University
I’ve always strived to learn from and be among “movers and shakers.” In Fall 1998, the Fresno JDPEL Doctoral program managed to bring together a group of the brightest and best educators to form the JDPEL Cohort 8. Wouldn’t be where I am today without the doctorate and those Crazy 8 colleagues!
~Dr. Diane Talbot, 2001
Director, PPS School Counseling Program
Fresno Pacific University