NSU Doctor of Education candidate’s award-winning research focuses on community college administration

A doctoral candidate in Northwestern State University's Adult Learning and Development program was recognized as one of eight Research-In-Progress award winners at the Mid-South Educational Research Association (MSERA). Craig Leager of Monroe, Iowa, is pursuing research titled "The Community College Presidency and Why Qualified Candidates Are Saying 'No Thanks.'" "This is a rigorous process that goes through several blind reviewers from educational professionals from across the mid-south," said Dr. Christy Hornsby, coordinator of the Ed.D. program in Adult Learning and Development. "Eight graduate students from across seven states were selected to receive this award. We are extremely proud to say that one of those students was one of our own." Leager is executive dean of Instruction at Indian Hills Community College (Iowa). He has a long career as an educator and administrator beginning as an elementary, middle and high school teacher and principal for Des Moines Public Schools, science specialist with Great Prairie Area Education Agency, regional education director with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and executive director at National Institute for STEM Education in Texas. He holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in educational administration from Iowa State University. He will defend his dissertation Nov. 18 and plans to graduate during NSU's fall commencement Dec 18. The Mid-South Educational Research Association encourages and provides results of quality educational research in elementary and secondary schools an in institutions of higher learning. Leagers was present to receive his award at the regional meeting in Chattanooga, Tennessee, along with Hornsby and his dissertation committee member, Dr. Laura Norman. "The Ed.D. Program at NSU has been invaluable for me to gain broader perspectives and knowledge to support me in my leadership role at a community college," Leager said. "As I ponder my professional future, the Ed.D. has positioned me to explore a variety of executive level opportunities in higher education. My professional goals have always involved enhancing my sphere of influence through roles where I can lead and guide improvement efforts for educators and ultimately student learning. NSU has helped me continue to fulfil these goals." NSU's Doctor of Education in Adult Learning and Development is an online program that focuses on developing community college leaders and preparing practitioners to work with adult learners and workforce development. Graduates are qualified to assume advanced leadership roles in community college leadership, workforce development, post-secondary education, adult learning and development and scholarship.