Dissertations highlight diverse educational challenges faced by K-12 and HBCU institutions

The Tennessee State University Graduate Ceremony for the Spring Commencement on May 3, 2025, highlighted the achievements of several doctoral candidates who presented their dissertation topics.

Among the graduates, Doctor Mohammed Rashid Alkani focused on the challenges faced by K-12 Saudi teachers in utilizing educational technology. Doctor Brandon Graham examined the factors influencing graduation rates at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in his dissertation titled "Our HBCUs Matter."

Doctor Sandra Bogard's research addressed ethical leadership in universities, particularly regarding outreach efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Doctor Nasheba Wilina Pritchard explored post-pandemic school leadership through the lens of teacher perception and self-efficacy.

Doctor Sunitra Upton conducted a comparative study on standards-based versus traditional grading among ninth-grade students. Lastly, Doctor Renice Mashburn's dissertation focused on race-based trauma in Black communities, proposing decolonial blueprints for healing.

This ceremony not only celebrated the academic accomplishments of these individuals but also underscored the diverse and impactful research being conducted at Tennessee State University. The discussions surrounding these dissertations reflect ongoing efforts to address significant educational and social issues.