NJCU EdTech 2022 Year in Review

NJCU EDTECH

YEARIN REVIEW

OVERVIEW

We are a graduate program in Educational Technology WITH A 23-YEAR HISTORY OF DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE AND INNOVATIVE LEADERS IN EDUCATION.

Our programs include

Master’s Degree in Educational Technology

M.A. in Educational Technology with School Librarian Specialization

24-credit School Librarian Media Specialist Certification Program

Graduate STEM-Certificate

Ed.D. in Educational Technology Leadership

Message from the Chairperson

The successes of our students and alum span borders and boundaries. In this Review, you’ll find alumni earning state and national awards, working locally and across the globe, and improving lives today and for the future. You’ll see students who are 3D printing prosthetic limbs, innovators of online education, and authors of bestselling books. You’ll read about numerous alumni earning big promotions

to leadership positions with influence in education. And, most of all, you’ll see our diverse community serving those in need and striving to bring equity and inclusion—impacting our state, nation, and world.

Regards,

Ed Tech Program Earns More NATIONAL RECOGNITION

We were honored to be named as one of the Top 10 Online Doctoral Programs in Educational Technology. The ranking metrics include several factors including graduation rate and return on investment after graduation.

The Ed Tech Department has already earned national recognition for its excellence. The Department’s M.A. in Educational Technology was ranked 3rd in the Nation for Online Educational Technology Programs by the Center for Online Education and 1st in the Nation by the College Affordability Guide. These awards are one side of the deep commitment we have to our students, alumni, and community of learners.

Innovative Leadership IN NEWARK

Dr. Johnson held a variety of positions since joining the Newark Board of Education: Substitute Teacher, Teacher Coach, School Operations Manager, Supervisor, and most recently, Special Assistant of the High School Leadership Team. We know the children of Newark are in great hands under Dr. Johnson’s leadership. (Courtney Johnson pictured above.)

ALUM PUBLISHED Best Selling Book on Autism

Ed.D. Alum’s School Gets

Congratulations to Dr. Peter Mattaliano (M.A. Ed Tech and Ed.D., Cohort 5), principal of Mahatma K. Gandhi School, PS #23 in Jersey City. Dr. Mattaliano’s school won a Verizon Innovative Schools Grant.

This will give his middle school students and staff Chromebooks and support as they develop technology-infused lessons and apply best practices to decision making, leadership, and technology. (Peter Mattaliano

Congratulations to Dr. Kerry Magro (Ed.D., Cohort 4) on his new book — Autistics on Autism: Stories You Need to Hear About What Helped Them While Growing Up and Pursuing Their Dreams.

It is currently the #1 Best Seller on Amazon in Autism & Asperger’s Syndrome. Dr. Magro is an internationally renowned author, speaker, and thought-leader on autism. He has appeared on national and international broadcasts from CBS, NBC, and CNN. This is an amazing book about the triumph of the human spirit. Whether you know someone with autism or not, it is filled with amazing stories of people breaking barriers.

(Kerry Magro pictured above.)

M.A. Alum Becomes Director of 21ST CENTURY EDUCATION

In February 2022 Arielle (Goldstein) Denrich became the Director of 21st Century Education at Somerville Public Schools.

Arielle oversees IT, instructional technology, and the school libraries. Se is also the district’s School Safety Specialist. Arielle was previously a school library media specialist, technology facilitator, and supervisor of curriculum, instruction, and technology in various districts in NJ. Arielle is a leader in several statewide educational organizations such as the New Jersey Association of School Librarians (NJASL) and the New Jersey

M.A. Alum Appointed SUPERINTENDENT

Congratulations to NJCU Ed Tech M.A. Alum John Berenato for his recent appointment as the

M.A. Alum Gets Grant to Have STUDENTS MAKE PROSTHETICS

Congratulations to Karen Rubinstein (M.A. Ed Tech) for her successful grant proposal “E-nabling Empathy: 3-D Printing for Good.”

The Lawrence Township Education Foundation awarded the grant for the creation of a club that will have students create and assemble prosthetic arms for e-NABLE, a global network of volunteers who use 3D printers to print prosthetics for those in need.

Doctoral Students

EARN FELLOWSHIPS

Lamont Harris and Colin White of Cohort 9 were awarded 2022 Fellowships from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.

This competitive program allowed them to work on policies and administration in Research, Communications, Licensure, Academic and Student Support, and Finance. They also created several policy white papers for the office. We are sure that Lamont, Colin, and the Secretary’s Office all benefited from the experience. Congratulations! (Lamont Harris and Colin White pictured above.)

Ed.D. Alum Earns Fullbright Award and MAKES A DIFFERENCE

IN UGANDA

Congratulations to Dr. Michael Bermudez (M.A. Ed Tech and Ed.D., Cohort 3). He earned a 2022-23 Fulbright Award to Uganda. In Uganda he is working with children and adults with disabilities and teaching educator and healthcare professionals on topics such as universal design, assistive technology, educational technology and occupational therapies.

Dr. Bermudez is an Assistant Professor at the University of Scranton. The purpose of the Fullbright Award is to increase mutual understanding between people of the US and people of other nations. As a Fullbrighter Dr. Bermudez joins the ranks of ambassadors, heads of state, college presidents, and Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners. (Michael Bermudez pictured above.)

Dr. Katy Blatnick-Gagne to Lead

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION ORGANIZATION

Congratulations to Dr. Katy Blatnick-Gagne (Ed.D., Cohort 2). She is the President Elect of the organization Leading, Engaging, Advocating, Developing Family and Consumer Science (LEADFCS), an international organization with the goal of empower individuals and families across the life span to manage the challenges of living and working in a diverse global society through Career & Technical Education (CTE). (Dr. Katy Blatnick-Gagne pictured below.)

M.A. Alum Leading A. HARRY MOORE SCHOOL

In September 2020 Jason Jusino (M.A. Ed Tech) took over as Principal of A. Harry Moore School, the NJCU Laboratory School for students with severe and multiple disabilities. Jason has overseen the renovations of the school, an increase in its enrollment, and the integration of educational technology into instruction to increase academic, social, and emotional wellbeing. He has also added new emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE). Jason elaborates that “our students are out in the community and on campus at NJCU for ‘Real World’ experiences through our C.B.I. Program (Community Based Instruction). We have made

many new partnerships with various community leaders and businesses to foster a mindset of independence for our students. The educators of A. Harry Moore continue to evolve their approaches in instruction.”

Jason took over during a troubling time, not only during the Covid Pandemic but the school building was closed due to safety concerns. It is now a success story in New Jersey and US education. Congratulations to Jason, the staff, students, and parents of A. Harry Moore for the amazing work. (Jason Jusino pictured above.)

Ed Tech M.A. Alum Gerald Lyons PRESIDENT OF BOARD OF EDUCATION

In January 2022 Ed Tech M.A. Alum Gerald Lyons was elected as the President of the Jersey City Board of Education. Gerald has been a educator and advocate for four decades in Hudson County. He’s a passionate champion for the children of Jersey City.

Gerald is the first openly-gay member of the board and made national news in 2020 when he defended LBGTQ community and inclusive curriculum during hours of attack at a board meeting. (Gerald Lyons pictured below.)

Ed.D. Alum Leading in School District AND IN ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Dr. Amy Arsiwala (Ed.D., Cohort 1) is the new Instruction Technology Supervisor of Franklin Township Public Schools. She will be leading the instructional technology of approximately 1,000 staff members, 8,000 plus students, and 10 schools.

Dr. Ariswala has also joined the Board of Directors of NJCART (New Jersey Coalition for the Advancement of Assistive & Rehabilitation Technology). NJCART is one of the leading advocacy and training organizations in the region for assistive and adaptive technologies.

NJCU Ed Tech is extremely proud of the work we do with assistive technologies and the impact that our alum have statewide and nationally. Dr. Arsiwala joins M.A. and Ed.D. ALums Dr. Wendy Thompson, President of NJCART and Dr. Patricia Holzman, Vice President of NJCART. (Amy Ariswala pictured above.)

Dr. Remberto “Rem” Jimenez Promoted to DIRECTOR OF LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Dr. Jimenez (Ed.D., Cohort 4) will be responsible for managing the overall learning and development strategy for Clear Channel Outdoor, an “Out of Home” advertising firm in New York City.

This includes the development and execution of e-learning content for a variety of topics ranging from consultative sales, marketing, internal process management, and technology-related resources. Rem is also responsible for the ongoing administration of the company’s learning management system and the management of third-party, subscription-based, e-learning libraries. Rem also partners with key stakeholders to manage and deploy annual compliance and mandatory training across the company (i.e., Code of Conduct, Harassment Prevention, Diversity and Inclusion, and Cybersecurity awareness). (Remberto Jiminez pictured above.)

Doctoral Student Leading CONFERENCE IN DENMARK

Nadia Abdallah, a Doctoral Student in Educational Technology Leadership at NJCU in Cohort 10, was a featured speaker at the 2022 Nordic Network Educators Conference in Hellerup, Denmark on November 12th.

Nadia’s talk focused on student agency, differentiation, and using educational technology to give learners a voice in the classroom. Nadia’s work in education draws on her experiences growing up in a home with immigrant Palestinian parents in Brooklyn, NY. She was a teacher and school leader in international schools in the Middle East for over a decade. Nadia is currently Chief Education and Development Officer at INJAZ Al-Arab in Jordan, which is part of the Junior Achievement Worldwide global network. Her work is focused on developing innovative educational initiatives and business development opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa. (Nadia Abdallah pictured below.)

M.A. Alum Erik Gundersen APPOINTED SUPERINTENDENT

Congratulations to P. Erik Gundersen—M.A. Alum in Ed Tech—newly appointed Superintendent of Suffern, NY School District.

(Erik Gundersen pictured.)

Dr. Judith Francis LEADING THE WAY IN HEALTH EDUCATION

Dr. Judith Francis (Ed.D., Cohort 6) is now the Program Manager for Central Jersey Family Health Consortium. Her duties include managing grant funded state initiatives centered around maternal and child health concerns, supervising community health workers, and creating digital resources for public health prevention and awareness programs. Judith also continues to work as an adjunct instructor at William Paterson University.

(Judith Francis pictured above.)

Doctoral Student STARS IN MUSICAL

Congratulations to Melissa Welz (Cohort 10) who starred in Sentimental Journey-A Musical Review of Rosemary Clooney at the Players Guild of Leonia in September. This show started out as a musical workshop and just recently got picked up by producers. It will start touring around the holidays to bring everyone a White Christmas!

Melissa performed songs such as, “ Half As Much”, “ Sisters”, “ Suzy Snowflake” and others in this two-act musical review. Melissa is an alum from NJCU’s music department. She received both her undergraduate and graduate degree in music education with a concentration in Voice and Composition. She currently is a music teacher in the North Bergen School District. Her research interests include the use of technology on theater education. (Melissa Welz pictured below.)

Dr. Samantha Kozar— Instructional Coach

AT INNOVATIVE VOCATIONAL SCHOOL AND NJCU

ED TECH’S NEW STEM CERTIFICATE COORDINATOR

Dr. Samantha Kozar (Ed.D.,

6) is now an instructional coach for the Union County Vocational Technical Schools in Scotch Plains, NJ.

This includes five high schools on the main campus, all of which offer specialized education for career readiness. US News and World Report named the magnet high school one of the top ten high schools in the United States in 2017-2019. There are two additional high schools located off the main campus that serve students recovering from addiction as well as intensive academic support for alternative pathway students. Dr. Kozar’s role is to incorporate innovative pedagogical strategies,

research-based practices, emerging technologies into all subjects. She is also part of a pilot program to help the district adopt an Understanding by Design curriculum.

Dr. Kozar is also the newly appointed coordinator of our STEM Certificate. The STEM Certificate Program is a rigorous, online, four-course program that provides K-12 school leaders, school librarians, and educators in all disciplines--including arts and humanities--with both the foundational STEM pedagogy, and the hands-on experience to be successful integrating STEM into their classrooms and schools. (Samantha Kozar pictured above.)

Doctoral Student Selected FOR NATIONAL STANDARDS PANEL

Melissa Garcia (Cohort 9) and English Language Learning educator, was selected as a national panelist to review the WIDA Standards. WIDA is a national consortium devoted to the development and delivery of standards, curriculum, instruction, and assessment of multilingual learners.

Melissa also recently presented with Ed.D. doctoral student Manuel Algarian on Game-Based Learning at the 2022 MC3 Technology and Learning Conference. (Melissa Garcia pictured above.)

Dr. Martin Hoffman Leading QUALITY ONLINE LEARNING

Dr. Martin Hoffman (Ed.D., Cohort 1) earned Quality Matters Master Reviewer Certification. Quality Matters is the leading organization for quality and consistency in online course design. Master Reviewers ensure quality in the peer review process.

Dr. Hoffman is the Dean of Learning Resources at Rowan College at Burlington County and is a Reviewer for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. (Martin Hoffman pictured below.)

Dr. Doug Koch Named

PRESIDENT OF NEDLA AND EARNS EQUITY AWARD

Alum Leading IT IN MT OLIVE

Congratulations to Dr. Rebecca Kreider (Ed.D., Cohort 2) who was recently promoted to be the Director of Innovation and Personnel at the Mount Olive Township School District. Rebecca was previously the Supervisor of STEAM and Information Technology. Kudos Rebecca. (Rebecca Kreider pictured above.)

Congratulations to Dr. Doug Koch (Ed.D., Cohort 5). He was recently named President of the Northeast Digital Learning Association (NEDLA). NEDLA is “dedicated to the free exchange of ideas and information between Academic, Corporate, Non-Profit, Government and Healthcare Digital Learning professionals concerning the myriad of issues and technological changes in the field of learning technologies and methodologies.”

Dr. Koch also earned the 2022 the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Employee Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award.

Dr Koch is the Associate Director of Teaching and Learning and the Medical Educational Center of Excellence. (Doug Koch, right, receiving award, pictured above)

NJCU Ed Tech Team Leading RESEARCH ON ADULT LEARNING

Ed.D. Alum Dr. Remberto Jimenez, Dr. Ronnie O’Neill, doctoral students Juan Rodriguez and Kristina Harb, and faculty member Dr. Christopher Shamburg shared their research on informal adult learning and podcasting at the 2022 Edmedia Conference.

The team interviewed 31 adults from across the US on their experiences learning from podcasts. (Podcast Learning Team pictured)

Ed.D. Ed Tech Alum Speaking ON LANGUAGE, RACE, AND INTERSECTIONALITY

Dr. Ericka Collado (Ed.D., Cohort 2), the 2022 Dwight Englewood Leggett/Umpleby Speaker. Dr. Collado’s talk on Scholarship, Race, and Intersectionality was informative, inspiring, and fun.

Dr. Collado wove history, her personal story, and Puerto Rican Bomba drumming into an unforgettable presentation. Anchored in the premise coined by educator and writer Dr. Parker Palmer “we teach who we are,” and Intersectionality Theory, Dr. Collado spoke about how her privileged and marginalized identities influence her classroom teaching. Whether teaching Spanish or Robotics, Dr. Collado’s family history, upbringing in Puerto Rico, academic path, reiki healing training, and the practice of Bomba, an Afro-diasporic musical genre, surface in the form of lessons designed to support the emotional intelligence development of students, rich cultural studies based on history, and

the application of critical thinking to understand the challenges of the world we live.

Dr. Collado teaches Spanish in the Dwight Englewood Upper School. The Leggett/Umpleby Speaker Award is given annually to showcase the scholarship of a Dwight Englewood faculty member.

This year Dr. Collado was also appointed to the Leadership Council of The National Museum of Language. The mission of the NML is to honor and support “language acquisition, utilization, and preservation, along with linguist and cultural diversity.” Congratulations Ericka! (Ericka Collado pictured above.)

Ed.D. Alum is “Teacher of the Year” and INTERNATIONAL EDUCATOR

Congratulations to Dr. Dana Mason (M.A. Ed Tech and Ed.D., Cohort 7), Technology Teacher at Harris Community School in Bayonne, who earned the school’s Teacher of the Year Award.

Dr. Mason is also is the lead educator and a board member with the not-for-profit organization We are GUTSY, Inc (Guyanese United to Serve Our Youth). This organization focuses on building character education skills for students by providing 21st century learning experiences and training for educators in Guyana. Dr. Mason developed an online social learning community to accompany virtual professional development for educators in Guyana to help establish new techniques and curriculum for teachers, as well as sessions for families and caregivers.

Dr. Aileen Matias-Castro (M.A. Ed Tech and Ed.D., Cohort 7) became a trainer with We are GUTSY, Inc., and together with the GUTSY Trainers and the support of the Ministry of Education, were able to host a Character Education Camp at St. Stanislaus College in Georgetown, Guyana.

This camp incorporated six schools and one community center from regions three and four in Guyana, with a total of 250 students and over 50 teachers that participated in the training. Drs. Mason and Castro will be continuing with training teachers through the year and look forward to planning for future visits to Guyana. Dana Mason and Aileen Matias-Castro pictured on left; GUTSY team pictured on right)

Ed.D. Alum Appointed Union City Principal, EXPERT IN EDUCATION AND VIRTUAL REALITY

Dr. Katie Kirby (Ed.D., Cohort 7) was appointed Principal at Robert Waters Elementary School in Union City, NJ. She has worked in Union City for the past 19 years as a teacher, technology coach, supervisor, assistant principal, and most recently, Principal. In addition to her administrative duties, Dr. Kirby is also the HIB District Coordinator and has been a committee member on the Hudson County Social Emotional Character Development Consortium.

She is also a highly sought-after consultant on virtual reality in education and was recently profiled on the LBX Virtual Reality web site.

(Katie Kirby pictured above.)

Technology, Writing, and COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Congratulations to Dr. John Findura (Ed.D., Cohort 6). This year Dr. Findura published the results from his dissertation in The Learning Assistant Review. The article is “Best Practices in Education Technology in TwoYear Community College Writing Centers.” John investigated the successful practices of community college writing labs across the United States. (John Findura pictured below.)

CIVIL RIGHTS Award

Congratulations to Dr. October Hudley (M.A. Ed Tech and Ed.D., Cohort 1). Dr. Hudley is a Councilwoman-at-Large in Irvington, NJ and the President of the Irvington National Action Network Chapter. This year she earned the award “Chapter of the Year”! (October Hudley and Al Sharpton pictured below.)

Melissa McEntee (M.A. Ed Tech) is the Public Sector Senior Strategist for SHI International. In this role she provides solutions to help educators enhance their infrastructure, design learning spaces, and transform the educational experience.

Previously Melissa was the Director of 21st Century Education for the Somerville Public School System. Congratulations Melissa. (Melissa McEntee pictured above).

Celebration OF EXCELLENCE

On June 1st NJCU Ed Tech had the honor of hooding our doctoral graduates and cording our M.A. graduates. We are proud of the 34 learners and leaders in the class of 2022. (Celebration of Excellence pictured below.)

Alum Earns SCHOLAR AWARD

Dr. Mathew Farber (M.A. Ed Tech and Ed.D., Cohort 1) earned the 2022 University of Northern Colorado’s Scholar Award.

Dr. Farber is the author of four books, researcher, and leading games scholar (M.A. and Ed.D. Alum, Cohort 1). He was quoted in a June 25th story in The Washington Post story about games and SEL: “We are now starting to realize the power that games can have at evoking certain competencies such as empathy and compassion.” (Matt Farber, right, pictured)

Ed.D. Alum Awarded

NATIONAL FELLOWSHIP

Dr. Dowayne Davis (Ed.D., Cohort 3) is the Chief Executive Officer for Philip’s Academy Charter School of Paterson in Paterson, NJ, and Founder & CEO of Systaimable Business.

Dr. Davis was awarded a Manati Fellowship for 2022-23. Manati is a fellowship program to support single-site charter school leaders in acquiring the necessary skills to sustain and grow their school(s). This fellowship will center on creating a peer community of school leaders of color who will connect and collaborate on pressing issues faced in single-site schools.

Dr. Davis was also the featured speaker at this year’s Arizona ASU+GSV Global Summit. The annual ASU+ GSV Summit connects leading minds focused on transforming society and business around learning and work. Dr. Davis was one of our guest speakers at the 2022 Summer Institute. (Dowayne Davis pictured above.)

Doctoral Student

EARNS SERVICE AWARD

Congratulations to Enrique Noguera, doctoral student in Cohort 10, for earning the 2022 International Men’s Day Educational Leadership Award. Enrique received his award on November 5th. It is given by the Growing in Grace Counseling Group and the Willie Peterkin Foundation.

Enrique is the Director of the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program and on the leadership team for the Men of Color Success Initiative (MOCSI) at Passaic County Community College. Through these programs Enrique provides students with the academic support, leadership development, and financial assistance they need to graduate from PCCC and enter four-year colleges across the state. (Enrique Noguera pictured above.)

M.A. Alum Blazing the Trail on INCARCERATED YOUTH AND THE RURAL DIGITAL DIVIDE

This year Cari Marks transferred from the public high school to the New River Valley Detention Center in Montgomery County, VA. where she is working with incarcerated youths.

She works as an English teacher, librarian, and reading coach. She is developing innovative curriculum through the use of Virtual Reality Headsets and Jamboards, and she is following up her advocacy for Appalachian youth through collaboration with a non-profit called OpenBook and committee work with the Virginia Department of Education.

She co-presented “Remote Living: Voices from across the Digital Divide” at the 2022 AERA Conference with Ed Tech faculty member Dr. Christopher Shamburg. The research examined the effects of the pandemic on education in Appalachia. (Cari Marks pictured above.)

NJCU School Library Alum

Leading

NJ SCHOOL LIBRARIES

The New Jersey Association of School Librarians’ Announced the 2021 School Librarian Award Winners. We are proud of our community members who were recognized.

Among the 2021 award winners at the New Jersey Association of School Librarians Conference were M.A. Alum Skye Silverstein who earned the Progressive School Library Media Program Award, M.A. Alum Margaret Adjoga-Otu who earned the Villy Gandhi Leadership Training Scholarship, and adjunct faculty member Jennifer Latimer who earned the Librarian of the Year, Ruth Toor Media Specialist Award. Last year’s Ruth Toor Librarian of the Year Award was awarded to NJCU Alum Iveth Mollinedo. Kudos all our school librarians. (Margaret Adjoga-Otu, left, pictured below.)

Ed.D. Alum Talks Ed Tech and Social Justice IN

THE MIDDLE EAST

During Summer 2022 Dr. Gigi Mohamad (Ed.D., Cohort 2), a faculty member at William Patterson University, was an invited speaker at the Arab Academic College of Education in Haifa, Israel to present and participate in a panel discussion about equity and social justice in education.

She also presented “Universal Design for Learning and Social Justice.” Furthermore, her recent research “First Years’ Information Literacy

Backpacks: What’s Already Packed or Not Packed?” was published in The Journal of Academic Librarianship. (Gigi Mohamad pictured below.)

LEADING THE SCHOOL Counseling Field

Congrats to Dr. Christine Enrico (Ed.D., Cohort 6) who joined the 2022 Inaugural National School Counsel Fellows Program at San Diego State University. During this two-year program she will study and develop innovative ideas that support college and career readiness in postsecondary planning with a focus on access, attainment, and re-imagining systems for success.

Dr. Enrico was also just appointed to lead the Paramus School District as the Supervisor of School Counseling K-12. (Christine Enrico pictured above.)

Innovation AT HISPANIC SERVING INSTITUTIONS

Congratulations to Juan Rodriguez, a current doctoral student in Cohort 8. Juan earned the Innovative Program Award at the High Impact Conference in Salt Lake City Utah. He is the principal investigator of the Hispanic Serving Institution Advanced Technological Education Initiative, a program at Westchester Community College to connect students with advanced technologies. (Juan Rodriguez pictured above.)

VIRTUAL LABS at ISTE

Kudos to doctoral students Kristina Harb and Giancarlo Perez-Flores for their work exploring virtual science labs in blended environments. They shared their work at the 2022 International Society for Technology in Education Conference.

MAKE A BETTER Spoon Challenge

NJCU Ed Tech has partnered with A. Harry Moore School to help design a better spoon, one that can be more easily used by people with difficulties with mobility.

The Spoon Challenge is running through 2023. Check with NJCU Ed Tech Web site for details (www.njcu.edu/edtech). (Dr. Patricia Holzman leading the Spoon Challenge pictured above.)

Students Share Research ON SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Doctoral Students Filiz Zeybeck, Deniz Ismailoff, and Melissa Welz presented on e-learning and social emotional learning, “Mindfulness in Education During and Post Covid 19,” at the 2022 MC3 Technology and Learning Conference.

Digital technologies and social and emotional learning are the topics of Filiz’s and Deniz’s dissertations. Great work!

Special Ed Podcast

Kudos to Dr. Katie Nieves Licwinko (M.A. Ed Tech and Ed.D., Cohort 7) whose work on technology in special education extends beyond schools.

Her podcast Assembling Inclusion has been delivering quality content and compelling interviews and is rising on major podcasting charts. Katie is one of the rising thought leaders on technology and special education. Katie is a Teacher/ Coordinator of Educational Technology Integration at Wayne Township Public Schools. (Katie Nieves pictured above.)

Ed.D. Alum Taking on New Role IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Dr. Linda Lampert (Ed.D. Cohort 5) was recently hired as an adjunct instructor at Kean University. She is teaching a graduated course called Technology for Students with Disabilities.

Dr. Lampert works full-time for the Rahway Public Schools as a Technology Facilitator and also at Caldwell University as an adjunct instructor for the School of Business and Computer Science. Way to go Linda! (Linda Lampert Pictured below.)

Doctoral Student APPOINTED PRINCIPAL

Deniz Ismailoff (Ed.D., Cohort 8) has been appointed as school principal at Passaic Arts and Science Charter Middle School (PASCS). Before becoming the school principal, she served as the middle school’s vice principal for two years. PASCS is one of the iLearn Schools urban charter middle schools located on the border of Clifton and Passaic, New Jersey. The STEM-based urban charter school educates 411 students from grades 4-7 and 54 staff members.

Deniz has worked in K-12 urban school districts in New Jersey for 17 years in school management, teaching, counseling, innovation, mentorship, curriculum, instruction, and assessment. She holds two master’s degrees, one in Counseling Education and another in Educational Leadership. Her exceptional leadership skills build diverse, inclusive, collaborative, and respectful learning cultures centering on well-being, equity, and quality education. Deniz’s dissertation focuses on the use of technology in social and emotional learning. (Deniz Ismailoff Pictured above.)

M.A. Alum is the 2022-23 HUDSON COUNTY TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Congratulations Ariel Babcock (M.A. Ed Tech) ! She is the 2022-23 Teacher of the Year from Hudson County.

Ariel is a history teacher at Weehawken High School. “Ariel is always a positive person, a positive influence, always has the right attitude about everyone and loves to make learning fun,” Weehawken High Principal Robert Ferullo said. “She puts significant time in her lesson plans to engage the students and connect with them and make them feel like they have value and have a voice.” (Ariel Babcock Pictured above.)

M.A. Alum Leading INNOVATIVE CHARTER SCHOOL

Kudos to Erie Lugo (M.A. Ed Tech) who is the principal of the University Academy Charter High School. Erie has led this 430-student school for 15 years. His major achievements have been the establishment of a datadriven school culture, a one-to-one technology environment, and multimedia-based instructional initiatives.

He is currently working on the design and implementation of a Social Emotional Wellness Center to address the social emotional well-being and learning needs of all students. Erie is also currently

supervising the renovations and expansions of the historic building’s infrastructure to support new science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) programming. (Erie Lugo pictured above.)

Cohort 2

REUNION

In September Doctoral Cohort 2 had a reunion in the Ironbound Section in Newark. A good time was had by all. (Cohort 2 pictured.)

M.A. Alum Leading ED TECH GLOBALLY

We’d like to profile M.A. Ed Tech Alum Ted Samaras. Ted is an Instructional Technology Coach in Franklin Township NJ. He is a Google for Education Certified Innovator and Trainer, and an Apple Learning Coach. He is the Co-Leader of the Google Educator Group (GEG) in New Jersey, a mentor for GEG Leaders in North America, and a leader for Google for Education’s US-Taiwan pilot mentorship program. Ted is also a social media ambassador for NASA.

Ted has been a presenter and contributor at multiple events such as ISTE (2019, 2021, 2022), NJECC, SPARCC, SparkCamp and Maratón Internacional (Mexico). He is also the founder of Recruit Helpers, a project that he started during his Google Innovator Academy. Recruit Helpers is a free website for student athletes to research and find contact infor-

mation for college and coaches and organize virtual workbooks to assist during the recruiting process.

Ted has started his own podcast, “Ski Cap, Hoodie, and Shorts” where he discusses a wide range of topics including instructional technology, recipes, and everyday life. The podcast is now available on multiple platforms. (Ted Samaras pictured below.)

Spreading the Word AND NETWORKING WITH ALUM

In 2022 we’ve had the privilege of sharing our work, promoting our programs, and reconnecting with alum at the New Jersey Science Conference, the New Jersey Educational Association Convention, and the New Jersey School Libraries Conference.

China Cohort is Making Things Happen

WE ARE ESPECIALLY PROUD OF OUR DOCTORAL STUDENTS IN CHINA

The 13 students in our China Cohort are university professors from Jilin International Studies University in Changchun China. In June they defended their dissertation proposals via Zoom. It is an exciting collection of topics, and we know these are going to be thoughtful and exciting dissertations.

During their Summer Institute in July they attended classes, presented their portfolios, and developed their professional growth plans. They also shared their dissertation proposals with NJCU faculty, students, and alum through virtual poster sessions.

We had attendees from five time zones and a wonderful exchange of ideas across cultures. The week culminated on Friday with a panel discussion on technology, leadership, and change in higher education with Ed.D. alum.

SUMMER INSTITUTE 2022

The Ed.D. in Ed Tech Leadership SUMMER

INSTITUTE ‘22

The Summer Institute is a signature event of the Ed.D. in Educational Technology Leadership. For the last 10 years our doctoral students have met, learned, laughed, and worked together during the third week of July. Though our two years of virtual Summer Institutes were successful during the peak of COVID, it was wonderful to be back in person again. The NJCU Ed.D. in Educational Technology Leadership was back on campus with Cohorts 8, 9, and 10 from July 18-22. Here are some of the highlights.

Pre-Instituting AT RED BULLS GAME

The Sunday night before the start of the Summer Institute all three cohorts, doctoral faculty and staff got the VIP treatment at the Red Bulls Arena when the Red Bulls played their rivals New York City FC. The night included dinner, air-conditioned suites, on-field penalty kicks, and bonding among faculty and students. Check out the action photos here. We were the Group of the Match, with a shout-out from the Red Bulls Captain.

DAY 1 Jump Right In

On the first day each cohort embarked on a different adventure. Cohort 8 went to their first class and shared their professional growth plans; Cohort 9 took their comprehensive exam; Cohort 10 engaged in team building and orientation. We got an energetic welcome from Dean Donna Breault and a wonderful guest speaker at lunch— Alum Dr. Joanna Antoniou whose talk offered inspiration and practical advice on leadership and doctoral education.

We would like to thank our IT department for showing up first thing in the morning to troubleshoot any connectivity problems for student devices. Our IT is so good, there was no trouble to shoot, but we appreciate their willingness to go above and beyond and ensure a smooth experience for our students.

DAY 2 Class and Cool

Day two continued with classes and guest speakers—NJCU Provost Dr. Tamara Jhashi welcomed our doctoral students and Alum Dr. Dowayne Davis shared his inspirational story and gave advice for navigating the doctoral program…and success after graduation.

Despite the July heatwave Cohort 9 chilled at the top of Mt. Everest…virtually.

DAY 3 Getting Real

Day 3 started off with a visit from Interim President Jason Kroll, who spent breakfast chatting with all of our students. We had classes in the morning, and then got serious and fun simultaneously. Cohort 8 presented their portfolios. The portfolios are evidence of their service and scholarship of the last three years and a qualifying experience for their degree. Cohort 9 sat as part of the audience.

Alum Dr. Katie Kirby shared her work as an administrator and as a consultant on virtual reality in education and gave advice for successfully navigating the program and beyond.

Cohort 10 had a workshop at the Guarini Library on using the electronic resources for doctoral research, given by our wonderful alum Dr. Min Chou. They also got a tour of A. Harry Moore School, NJ-

CU’s laboratory school for students with multiple disabilities. They learned about the amazing work done at AHM (several of our alum work there). They learned about the innovative therapies and uses of assistive technologies. Networking and collaborations developed in discussion on customizing adaptive toys and educational products. They also judged a sidewalk chalk art contest.

DAY 4

Show Time

Thursday was quite a day. The morning was filled with classes, and then things got real busy in the afternoon. Cohort 8 presented a poster session of their dissertation proposals, and the other cohorts grabbed some lunch, listened, asked questions, and learned. It was a great opportunity for Cohort 8 to begin to bring their dissertation projects out into the light, having just successfully defended them…and cohorts 9 and 10 had plenty of questions.

At 3pm Cohort 10 gave a wonderful presentation—with world class singing. They introduced themselves and unveiled their web site. We also took our traditional photo on the International Stairway at the Gilligan Student Union Building.

DAY 5 ESCAPE

Every year we end our Summer Institute with a field visit. Escape rooms offer game-like learning, problem solving and team building. On Friday we took over Escape Garden State—battling organized crime, the Jersey Devil, and other troublemakers of New Jersey. Team Bulls had the best clock time, but we all had a great time.

Millie

You may have noticed a certain German Shepard in the pictures of the US Summer Institute— Millie. Millie is training to be a seeing eye dog by Cohort 10 member Jeff Kontio. Faculty and all cohorts learned about the training and got some quality time with a very well-behaved puppy.

Millie

VALUE

PROPOSITION

IN 2022 THE DOCTORAL PROGRAM ARTICULATED AND PUBLISHED ITS VALUE PROPOSITION. HERE ARE THE FIVE WAYS WE STRIVE TO BE THE MOST STUDENT-CENTERED ED.D. IN THE US.

1 2 Commitment TO YOUR GROWTH

Unrivaled Support FOR YOUR DISSERTATION

We see ourselves as partners in your career goals. At the beginning of your program you work with faculty to develop a Professional Growth Plan, an actionable vision of where you see your career in 3, 5, and 10 years. We then commence to take the steps, large and small, to implement that growth plan. We support you to publish, present, and lead in-service programs in the direction of your goals. Our students have published books and articles with faculty support. Students with no experience in public speaking have presented at state, national, and international conferences. Our students lead an Annual Girls in STEM initiative and started a Wearable Technology Users Group. Our students and faculty have designed numerous workshops for international educational leaders.

Your dissertation is the signature achievement of your doctoral education, and in our program every member of your committee is dedicated to your success. The chair and other committee members are experts in their respective fields and have been selected so you can do your best work. Every member of your committee promises to give you feedback on the chapters and drafts of your work within two weeks. Moreover, a member of your committee will never take a sabbatical during your dissertation. We also provide online tutoring for your writing and assistance from a professional proofreader for your final draft at no additional cost to you. If you are not sure how rare or important these commitments are, talk to doctoral students from other universities. The lack of support during the dissertation is a recurring problem in doctoral studies. We are dedicated to developing your talents and professional interests during your dissertation.

Fidelity TO OUR MISSION

Our program gives our students a focused and comprehensive doctoral education. Many other universities assemble doctoral programs from existing courses under the umbrella of being ‘interdisciplinary’. These other programs can be disjointed and inconsistent with poor policy implementation and confusing communication to students. Our program was developed by faculty with expertise in the field of educational technology leadership and is taught, coordinated, and supervised by that same team.

4 5

Value for YOUR TUITION Proven RECORD

We are one of the least expensive doctoral programs in the region, and we are transparent about our fees. Look at the pricing of other programs, and it would be difficult to find many that are less expensive. If you do find one, please read the fine print and ask about dissertation fees, robing fees, student fees, technology

fees, etc. Ask what the difference is between the printed tuition and the total cost. Our simple answer to that question is that there is no difference. We have no hidden fees and your tuition is guaranteed to stay the same for the three years of the program. You are set with the price you started with, so you can budget accordingly. We are honored that our students have chosen to trust us with their education, and we put that responsibility at the forefront of our work.

In 2017 The College Affordability Guide rated the Educational Technology Program at NJCU #1 in Instructional Technology Programs. The ranking formula did not simply measure cost; it included measurements in “Institutional Fit”, * “Getting In”, and “Getting Out”. We are honored to be recognized for providing a quality and affordable education in this cutting-edge field.

We have had amazing, diverse cohorts of doctoral students. They have an amazing experience while they are here, and 70% of our students have graduated in three years and 79% have graduated in five years. Our students have gone on to a myriad of successful career paths. Several have published books and articles based on their work at NJCU. Some have started careers as tenure track faculty, and many have augmented their current work with part-time faculty positions. Some of our students have gone on to become K-12 leaders, deans, and leading administrators at libraries and statewide programs.