May 6, 2025

Stephanie Deemer, EdD, completed her EdD in Educational Leadership and Management with Drexel last year, leading her to a career as an assistant superintendent in a public school district. A goal she held from the beginning of her post-graduate education, she obtained her PA Superintendent Letter of Eligibility through the EdD program. Despite the rigorous coursework of the program, she cites both her personal relationships and academic partnerships, particularly with her mentor Dr. Michael Kozak, as some of the most impactful parts of her graduate school experience.

How has/did your experience at Drexel University School of Education help you grow professionally?

The Drexel University School of Education provided me with the tools and opportunities to take the next step in my career. Throughout the development of my dissertation, as well as during my internship, I was learning about current thought leaders, forward-thinking designs in educational systems, and how to impact change on a larger scale. The collaborative nature of the program brought me into a sphere of international colleagues who challenged my thinking and encouraged me to grow. The entire program was focused on growth, which married well with my passion for lifelong learning and professional development.

Can you share a specific moment or achievement that highlights your time at Drexel?

The personal connections that were made with both the faculty and the members of my cohort were and still are very special. At one point, my small group of four collaborative colleagues spanned 3 countries and 4 time zones. We had to rotate our meeting times via Zoom, so that only one person in the group had to wake up in the middle of the night to meet and conduct our work. The specific moment that highlights my time at Drexel was when I finally got to meet my cohort and my professors in person on graduation day. It was like going home and seeing old friends.

How has/did the program prepare you for your current role or career advancement?

At the time I began my program, I was an assistant principal. I knew that I wanted to become an assistant superintendent. Drexel University’s School of Education provided me with the opportunity to obtain my Superintendent Letter of Eligibility through a thoughtfully aligned progression of simultaneous coursework and internship hours. The internship portion of the program allowed for high-level reflection and the coursework encouraged systems thinking, both of which are extremely valuable now in my role as Assistant Superintendent.

How have/did the faculty and resources at Drexel influence your educational journey?

The faculty of the School of Education are exceptional. Every professor I encountered was wholly committed to the development of educators, extremely knowledgeable, and highly encouraging. Dr. Kozak, my mentor, had a profound impact on my educational journey and I was grateful to have him as the Chair of my committee for my research.