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SMU Education Policy and Leadership

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SMU Education Policy and Leadership

M.Ed and Ed.D. Higher Education programs
Education Policy and Leadership
SMU SMU's higher education program offers M.Ed. and Ed.D.

degrees specializing in the study of colleges and universities. The program offers a hands-on learning environment, a strong faculty of researchers and practitioners, and an engaging group of students. Please contact us to learn more about the program and the exciting opportunities ahead!

09/03/2026

Give a hearty welcome to Chloe Watkins, an outstanding addition to the year’s EdD cohort of Higher Education Leaders!

Chloe serves as Assistant Director in the Fraternity and Sorority Life Office at Southern Methodist University, where she works with the Multicultural Greek Council and Panhellenic Council to support student leadership development and recruitment and intake processes. She earned her undergraduate degree from Auburn University and her master’s degree from the University of Tennessee. Beyond her professional role, Chloe volunteers as an advisor for her national sorority and serves on her home chapter’s honor board. Having recently gotten married, she is enjoying rediscovering hobbies with her newfound free time, which often includes walks with her husband and two dogs, Oatmeal and Murphy, attending fitness classes, and exploring new coffee shops and restaurants. She has been in Dallas for two years and loves trying new places in the DFW area.

09/02/2026

Associate Professor, Dr. Xiaodan Hu’s research reveals how dual enrollment sits at the intersection of high school practice and college policy: shaping opportunity, equity, and the pathways students navigate between secondary and postsecondary education.

Check out some of her recent work to bring yourself up to speed on dual enrollment programs and their place in society.

08/31/2026

For our final Ed.D. student highlight for August, we invite you to join us in welcoming Ashlyn John!

Ashlyn is excited to begin her doctoral studies at Southern Methodist University this fall. Originally from North Carolina, she moved to Dallas to pursue her passion for education and continue growing as an educator. Ashlyn currently teaches first grade and enjoys helping young learners develop confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. Working with children during these foundational years has strengthened her commitment to education and inspired her to continue developing her knowledge and leadership in the field. One of the unique aspects of her school is its emphasis on hands-on outdoor learning, including opportunities for students to interact with farm animals as part of their educational experience. Ashlyn looks forward to learning from her professors and fellow cohort members while building meaningful professional relationships along the way.

08/27/2026

As our first week back at school draws to a close, It is my pleasure to welcome Jennifer Mayes to our latest cohort of Ed. D. Higher Education Leaders!

Jennifer is a Manager of Canvas and Instructional Systems in the Office of Information Technology at Southern Methodist University, where she has worked since 2021. She leads initiatives focused on the Canvas learning management system, system integrations, and improving how technology supports instruction. Jennifer specializes in evaluating and integrating emerging technologies to enhance the learning experience, with a focus on leading strategic decisions around instructional technology and shaping the future of teaching and learning. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Oklahoma and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Her interests include exploring the intersection of technology, organizational development, leadership, and change management in higher education. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, spending time with loved ones, and exploring new wines through tastings and winery visits.

08/26/2026

“SMU taught me to balance being people-first while remaining scholar-centered. As a leader, I have learned that making difficult decisions is essential to building a culture of academic excellence where every scholar has access to high-quality instruction.”

Next up on our P-Cert to AP road map is Latasha Gary, the Dean of English Language Arts and Social Studies at Elevate Primary School of Uplift Education.

❓ How did getting an M.Ed. from SMU help you achieve your career goals?

🔷 Earning my M.Ed. from SMU equipped me with the leadership knowledge and practical skills needed to become an effective instructional leader. The program also prepared me to successfully complete the PASL and principal certification requirements while broadening my understanding of curriculum across grade levels, allowing me to coach teachers with greater confidence and expertise.

❓ What made you want to become a school principal?

🔷 Teaching allowed me to inspire, support, and believe in every scholar's potential. Becoming a school leader expanded my impact by giving me the opportunity to coach teachers, strengthen instructional practices, and ensure every child receives a high-quality, scholar-centered education that prepares them for success beyond the classroom.

❓ Would you recommend getting an M.Ed. or principal certificate from SMU? Why?

🔷 Without hesitation, I would recommend earning an M.Ed. or principal certification from SMU. The professors were incredibly supportive, providing guidance and encouragement throughout the program. They challenged me to grow as a leader while creating an environment where I felt valued, prepared, and confident to lead schools effectively.

08/25/2026

It's the first week of school, and time to feature another new addition to the Ed.D. Educational Leadership Program at SMU! Please join us in welcoming Kristy Dewberry to EPL!!

Kristy Dewberry is a passionate educator, visionary leader, and campus administrator dedicated to creating spaces of belonging and equity in public education. Holding three academic degrees, including two master’s degrees from Southern Methodist University, she enters the Ed.D. program with a deep commitment to qualitative research that honors community kinship and intentional leadership. A proud mother of two, Kristy roots both her leadership and academic pursuits in purpose, legacy, and the power of community connection.

08/24/2026

Happy first day of the fall semester, Mustangs! And a big Pony‑up welcome to all our new students starting their SMU journey. Let’s make it a great year together.

08/20/2026

It is our pleasure to welcome Payton Landrum to our newest cohort of Ed.D. Higher Education Leaders!

Payton serves as Assistant Director of Career Development at the Hegi Family Career Development Center, where she is dedicated to enhancing career outcomes for students and alumni. She brings a unique perspective to career counseling by integrating her mental health background to better understand student needs and support lifelong career development. Working within strengths-based and life design frameworks, she helps individuals align their career paths with their interests, values, and skills. Payton joined Southern Methodist University in June 2025 after serving as a Career Advisor at the University of Texas at Dallas. She is excited to begin the Ed.D. in Higher Education and deepen her understanding of how institutions can support students as they navigate their educational journeys. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, writing, volunteering with the Dallas Public Library, and spending time with her three cats: Fern, Marigold, and Ginger.

08/19/2026

“SMU taught me the importance of conscious leadership—knowing my values, beliefs, and purpose. This has helped me create a strong campus vision and ensure that our work remains aligned to achieve meaningful outcomes for students.”

Today, it is our pleasure to highlight Kelly Diaz, M.Ed. Alumna and Assistant Principal of W.E. Greiner Exploratory Arts Academy in Dallas ISD!

❓ How did getting an M.Ed. from SMU help you achieve your career goals?

🔷 Earning my M.Ed. from SMU prepared me to be an instructional leader with a clear vision for all stakeholders. The knowledge, skills, and professional network I gained helped me achieve my career goals.

❓ What made you want to become a school principal?

🔷 I wanted to become a school principal to be an instructional leader who invests in and develops teachers, improves the student experience, and builds a legacy school that students, families, and the community are proud of.

❓ Would you recommend getting an M.Ed. or principal certificate from SMU? Why?

🔷 I highly recommend SMU’s M.Ed. and principal certification programs. The exceptional professors, rigorous coursework, and strong network of educational leaders provided invaluable support, resources, and opportunities throughout my leadership journey.

Address

3101 University Boulevard, Ste 345
Dallas, TX
75205

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm

Telephone

+12147683354

Website

https://www.smu.edu/Simmons/Academics/Education-Policy-and-Leadership

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