PEPPERDINE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION AND PSYCHOLOGY
DEAN’S REPORT
2023–2024
DEAN’S LETTER
Greetings GSEP Family,
As I began my journey as dean, I envisioned Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology as a beacon of academic excellence guided by its Christ-centered mission, with a global presence and a deep commitment to belonging and stewardship. I once dreamed that GSEP would grace the cover of TIME magazine as the best graduate school of the year—a place where we not only meet our objectives but exceed them in every way.
The Dean’s Report for the 2023–2024 academic year reflects that vision. It focuses on celebrating the stories and accomplishments of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Through these narratives of resilience, innovation, and leadership, the essence of our collective excellence is brought to life.
Within this report, you will find a showcase of unique journeys and impactful contributions from every corner of our GSEP community. It is a testament to our shared dedication, our pursuit of growth, and our unwavering commitment to transforming lives through education and psychology.
I invite you to explore these pages and witness the profound impact GSEP has made this year. Together, we continue to build a brighter future—one that reflects the core values of academic distinction, faith-driven purpose, and a global mindset.
With gratitude,
Farzin Madjidi (MBA ’88, EdD ’91) Dean Professor of Leadership Graduate School of Education and Psychology
GSEP AT A GLANCE | FALL 2023 ENROLLMENT RESULTS
Enrolled Students
Fall 2023 Total 3,663
Total New Students 767
Gender
Male 19.5%
Female 80.5%
Global Enrollment
30 Countries of Residence
Argentina, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, China, Côte D’Ivoire, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Japan, Lebanon, Mexico, Morocco, The Netherlands, Nigeria, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Spain, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Emirates, United Kingdom, Venezuela, Vietnam
Student Race/Ethnicity (Fall 2023)
Student Aid
GSEP Scholarships for FY23
$6.6 million
2022–2023 Dissertations
Dissertations Defended 83
PsyD 25
EdD 32 PhD 26
Source: GSEP Dissertation Tracking
Newly Tenured Faculty
We are delighted to announce the granting of tenure to two esteemed faculty members at GSEP:
VERONICA VIESCA
Associate Professor of Psychology
“I am deeply honored and thrilled to have been awarded tenure at Pepperdine University. This milestone reflects my dedication to academic excellence and the unwavering support of my colleagues and students.”
ERLANGER A. TURNER
Associate Professor of Psychology
“Receiving tenure is a testament to my commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments and teaching the next generation of clinicians and scholars.”
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Learning Design and Technology Update
We are excited to announce that Jennifer Miyake-Trapp began service as the inaugural assistant dean of Learning Design and Technology at GSEP, on February 15, 2024. Miyake-Trapp has been a key leader in instructional design and has significantly contributed to the school’s development of online and hybrid.
The Learning Design and Technology department had a prolific year. The team’s research and insights focused on fostering collaboration between instructional designers and faculty, leveraging technology to enhance learning environments, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.
Team members shared their expertise at a number of national and international conferences.
At the Online Learning Consortium Accelerate Conference in Washington, DC, Jennifer Miyake-Trapp, Seung Lee, and Elias Saade presented on faculty-instructional designer partnerships, and at the American Educational Research Association, they discussed the impact of technology in higher education. Xiadani Mendoza copresented on enhancing instructional design in multilingual education, and Harream Purdie shared about vocabulary development, scenario-based learning, and cultivating belonging in diverse classrooms. The team delivered a total of 28 conference presentations, including participation in international forums such as the Deep Sea Islands of Innovation Conference at the University of Liverpool, further demonstrating its global influence on instructional design and educational technology.
The Learning Design and Technology team continues to push the boundaries of instructional design, promoting a culture of collaboration, innovation, and technological advancement to support both faculty and students in transformative learning environments.
2023 HOWARD A. WHITE AWARD WINNERS
We proudly recognize the following faculty members who received the Howard A. White Award for Teaching Excellence:
GABRIELLA MIRAMONTES
Visiting Professor
Doctoral Programs; Director of Excellence and Innovation Practices; and Director of the Center for Global Partnerships and Learning, Education Division
PAMELA HARMELL
Clinical Professor Psychology Division
A GROUNDSWELL OF STUDENTS
According to the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, the demand for psychologists will grow by 6 percent through 2032, faster than the average for all jobs in the US economy.
This year, the Graduate School of Education and Psychology celebrated its largest-ever commencement ceremony with nearly 800 psychology graduates participating. Spearheaded by director of culture and community Vanessa Jahn, and events coordinator Desiree Munoz, nearly 10,000 guests gathered on the Malibu campus to celebrate the accomplishments of the psychology graduates.
This surge in graduates follows an almost 10,000% for the Psychology Online programs and 135% across GSEP enrollment over the past eight years, significantly bolstered by the integration of online program offerings. These results reflect a rise in mental health awareness and the urgent need for trained professionals, as well as the leadership and dedication of admissions and enrollment director, Karen Magner, and her team of recruitment officers and processors.
Testimonial
EIGHT-YEAR COMPARATIVE TREND - ALL PROGRAMS
“As director of culture and community and supervisor, Vanessa Jahn has been an impactful mentor and transformative leader. Her values and effective dedication to her work, along with the team-building efforts she emphasizes, are truly an influence. She has initiated a sense of belonging and community that I had been searching for as a GSEP student and staff member. I will forever appreciate her commitment and faith in my role at GSEP. Pepperdine GSEP is blessed to have Jahn lead, mentor, and positively influence the Pepperdine mission and its community members’ personal growth.”
DESIREE MUNOZ , Event Coordinator
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Aliento Latinx Heritage Month Programming
The Aliento Center, in collaboration with the Center for Global Partnerships and Learning, celebrated Latinx Heritage Month with events that emphasized community resilience and cultural self-care practices. The series included an opening ceremony by Maestra Grace Alvarez Sesma, workshops by Susana Salgado, and a concluding session with Mujeres de Maiz, all aimed at fostering a sense of community across platforms.
Aliento Graduation Ceremony
In response to the need for a more inclusive graduation experience, a group of students proposed an Aliento Graduation Ceremony to accommodate families who might not fully engage with GSEP’s English-only commencement ceremony. This past spring, GSEP hosted the Aliento Graduation Ceremony, an inclusive event that celebrated the achievements of our 2023–2024 graduates. More than 150 attendees, including students, families, faculty, and staff, gathered to honor the hard work and dedication of our graduates.
2023–2024 Dissertations Defended
Alumni Affairs Strategic Initiative: Faculty Engagement Survey
As part of GSEP’s ongoing commitment to enhancing alumni engagement, Renee Dorn, director of alumni relations, conducted a faculty engagement survey and interviews in July 2024. The initiative sought input from faculty across the Education and Psychology Divisions to identify meaningful ways to connect with alumni and integrate them into the GSEP community.
KEY INSIGHTS
Guest Lectures and Panels:
Faculty expressed strong interest in having alumni participate as guest speakers, lecturers, and panelists in their courses. These interactions would provide alumni with opportunities to enhance their resumes and give students real-world perspectives.
Career and Networking Events:
A strong desire was stated for career-focused events such as lunch and learn sessions, webinars, and networking events where alumni can share career advice, discuss industry trends, and help students navigate their professional journeys.
Alumni-Faculty Collaboration:
Many faculty members suggested opportunities for collaboration with alumni on research projects, conference presentations, and publications. These partnerships would not only strengthen the alumni network but also contribute to ongoing academic and professional development.
Local and National Engagement:
Recognizing the geographical diversity of GSEP alumni, faculty recommended hosting events in various cities and creating opportunities for alumni to engage with students both locally and across the country.
This initiative by alumni affairs is a vital step in fostering a more connected and engaged alumni community, further enhancing the educational experience for current students and building lasting relationships with GSEP graduates.
The Graduate School of Education and Psychology continues to foster scholarly excellence through rigorous doctoral programs, preparing students to make significant contributions to their fields. This year, our doctoral candidates across the PsyD, EdD, and PhD programs have showcased their dedication to advancing research and theory, defending a remarkable number of dissertations. These milestones not only represent the culmination of years of academic effort but also reflect our commitment to producing research that drives innovation, leadership, and transformative change in education and psychology.
For the academic year 2023–2024, the following number of dissertations were successfully defended:
PSYD PROGRAM:
Preliminary orals: 30
Final defenses: 21
EDD PROGRAM: Preliminary orals: 45
Final defenses: 44
PHD PROGRAM: Preliminary orals: 43 Final defenses: 41
The perseverance and academic rigor of our doctoral candidates, as well as the invaluable guidance of their faculty mentors, are underscored by these figures. We are proud of our doctoral program graduates’ contributions and look forward to the lasting impact their research will have on their respective fields.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The accomplishments of the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology community reflect the dedication, innovation, and impact of our faculty, students, staff, and alumni. This past year, their achievements have spanned across academic excellence, research contributions, professional advancements, and community service. Each accomplishment highlights the shared commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering leadership, and making a meaningful difference in the world. Below, we celebrate the notable accomplishments of our GSEP community, grouped by faculty, students, staff, and alumni.
Faculty Accomplishments
SAMAA HANIYA
Samaa Haniya, assistant professor of education, and PhD student Chanel Fort coauthored a book chapter titled “Towards Digital Equity: Reimagining Digital Learning through the Lens of Bloom’s Taxonomy.” The chapter addresses the educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for marginalized populations. It explores how reimagining Bloom’s Taxonomy can help achieve digital equity in education, focusing on communities of color and underserved areas.
DAVID A. LEVY
In 2024 David A. Levy, professor of psychology, established the Dr. David A. Levy Scholarship for Excellence in Critical Thinking, awarded annually to a GSEP psychology student.
The eighth edition of Levy’s best-selling text, “Cross-Cultural Psychology: Critical Thinking and Contemporary Applications,” was released in spring 2024. The book has been cited 639 times and has editions in Hindi, China, Indonesian, Arabic, Greek, Macedonian, Czech, and Bulgarian.
ERIC HAMILTON
JUNE SCHMIEDER-RAMIREZ
June Schmieder-Ramirez, director of the PhD in Global Leadership and Change program, was awarded the 11th annual Award for Excellence in Leadership by the Provost’s Office, recognizing her significant contributions to the field.
The National Science Foundation Education Research Grants awarded two research grants to a GSEP team led by Danielle Espino, Eric Hamilton, Seung Lee, Kristina Lux, and graduate assistants. The projects, reflecting GSEP’s global presence and academic excellence, include the Asset Based Learning Environment network, which connects teenagers globally to collaborate on projects in robotics, environmental science, AI, and more. The research focuses on adolescent identity formation through global collaboration. Using quantitative ethnography and epistemic network analysis, the team has produced multiple peer-reviewed publications and was invited to guest edit a special issue of the Journal of International Cooperation in Education.
KEVIN M. WONG
Kevin M. Wong, assistant professor of education, collaborated with students and former students on peer-reviewed publications and presentations, publishing seven journal articles and guestediting a special issue of RELC Journal. He became coeditor of the CATESOL Journal and joined several editorial boards. Wong was also named a Gambrinus Fellow and delivered public lectures at TU Dortmund in Germany. He also copresented at multiple conferences and served as an advisor for PBS KIDS media.
GABRIELLA MIRAMONTES
Gabriella Miramontes, assistant clinical professor, hosted annual cultural celebrations and workshops, and published two issues of the SWB Journal. She also organized the NDIM Virtual Symposium and facilitated the presence of 74 GSEP students and faculty at the HICE conference. Three PhD students were selected for the Pepperdine Excellence Postdoctoral Project for Equity Research program, and through her efforts GSEP hosted a research symposium in Switzerland.
GIMEL ROGERS
Gimel Rogers, clinical faculty of psychology, offered research opportunities to GSEP students, resulting in conference presentations, grant funding, and publications. She presented at the International Academy of Law and Mental Health in Barcelona, Spain, in July.
SHELLY HARRELL
Shelley Harrell, professor of psychology, received three awards: the Community Healer Award, the 2024 Distinguished Psychologist Award, and recognition as one of the 20 Powerful Women of Mindfulness by Mindful magazine. She also presented at the National Multicultural Conference and Summit and joined the advisory board of Maple Counseling Center.
AMANDA WICKRAMASINGHE
Amanda Wickramasinghe, visiting professor of education, partnered with Uppsala University and the Women’s Scholarship Endowment to develop career development and leadership training programs.
MELISSA WASSERMAN
Melissa Wasserman, assistant professor of psychology, received a certificate of recognition from the California State Legislature for her work with the Holocaust education nonprofit, If You Heard What I Heard.
CARRIE CASTAÑEDA-SOUND
Carrie Castañeda-Sound, program director of the MA in Clinical Psychology Evening Format program and associate professor of psychology, was awarded Fellow of Division 35 (the Society for the Psychology of Women) by the American Psychological Association.
JUDY HO GAVAZZA
Judy Ho Gavazza, associate professor of psychology, released her new book, The New Rules of Attachment, and delivered a TEDx talk at TEDxReno. Her book offers a revolutionary approach to attachment theory and practical tools for healing and achieving a secure attachment.
RITCHIE RUBIO
Ritchie Rubio, adjunct professor of psychology, received two awards from the American Psychological Association: the Award for Promoting Evidence-Based Mental Health Services for Children and Adolescents and the Adjunct Faculty Teaching Excellence Award.
ABRAHAM SONG
Abraham Song, assistant professor of education, was appointed a senior fellow at George Washington University’s Institute of Public Policy. He participated in research workshops and the inaugural conference, “Beyond Dynamic Competition.”
ERLANGER A. TURNER
Erlanger A. Turner, associate professor of psychology, coauthored two peer-reviewed journal articles and was elected to the American Psychological Association council of representatives. He also contributed to an article by Sesame Workshop on building strong parent-child relationships.
Student Accomplishments
ADELITA MONTERO
Under the guidance of Orlando Saiz, adjunct professor of psychology, Adelita Montero published her literature review titled “The Effectiveness of Neurotherapies in the Treatment of Complex Trauma” in the peer-reviewed journal NeuroRegulation. This achievement highlights Montero’s dedication to her studies and her contribution to the field of psychology.
STACY KEATON ALEXANDER
Stacy Keaton Alexander, a student intern with Gimel Rogers, clinical professor of psychology, focused her research on the correlation between gender bias and trauma among women attorneys. With data collected from more than 400 participants and supported by a Provost research grant, Alexander presented her findings at the GSEP Research Symposium in Switzerland. Her research aims to contribute to the development of training programs that address managing the impact of these experiences in the legal profession.
ERIKA BARNES FORD
Erika Barnes Ford, a PhD student at GSEP, has made significant strides in her academic pursuits by presenting her research on racial, civic, and social justice at national and international conferences. Ford’s work on Empathy for Equity and a collaborative DEI-project titled “ENABLE,” were showcased at the Hawaiian International Conference on Education in January 2024. She also presented research on social justice education at the Hampton Roads Social Justice Conference in Virginia and the AERA annual conference in Philadelphia. Ford also presented at the NIVA Summer Online Conference, the GSEP Research Symposium in Switzerland, and the International Leadership Association’s Global Conference in Chicago. Ford, who is completing her dissertation under Ebony Cain’s mentorship, is also expanding her political consultancy firm while continuing to advocate for social justice and systems change.
GSEP POLICY TRIP TO WASHINGTON, DC
Led by Ebony Cain, program chair of the EdD programs and associate professor of education, , GSEP students had the opportunity to engage in a national policy trip to Washington, DC, where they explored various aspects of public policy, including advancements in carbon capture, the integration of AI in policy, and challenges in higher-education funding. Students visited key governmental entities, attended briefings, and participated in discussions on global sustainability. This immersive experience provided students with a deeper understanding of the policy cycle and its impact on societal transformation.
PEPPER POSTDOC PROGRAM
Three PhD students, Suelen Schnieder Demaria, Karin Moore, and Lien Weintraub, were selected for the Pepperdine Excellence Postdoctoral Project for Equity Research program. Karin Moore reflected on her academic journey, expressing gratitude for the GSEP community that shaped her scholarly path. She is committed to creating inclusive spaces for women, girls, and historically underrepresented voices in STEM, and looks forward to continuing her work as a Pepperdine Fellow.
Staff Accomplishments
YAS HARDAWAY
Yas Hardaway, executive director of career services, presented at seven national conferences on supporting the unique career development needs of graduate students and bridging the gap from career counseling theory to practice.
At GSEP’s Research Symposium, she co-presented with career services team members Usman Khan and Nadine Souret on incorporating faith and spirituality in career development, and with Usman Khan on trauma-informed career counseling. Additionally, Hardaway coauthored an article in the National Association of Colleges and Employers Journal.
Alumni Accomplishments
RICKKAY KING
Rickkay King (MA ’15, PhD ’24) cofounded Phoenix International School of the Arts in Charles County, Maryland. The school is the first charter and performing arts school in the area, serving a diverse student body rooted in diverse-by-design principles. King has successfully integrated the learnings from both of his Pepperdine degrees into the school’s culture and curriculum.
STORIES
At Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology, the journeys of our students and staff are filled with inspiring stories of resilience and growth and a commitment to making a difference. These personal narratives reflect the diverse paths and shared values that define our community. Whether through academic pursuits, professional achievements, or personal transformations, each story offers a glimpse into the unique experiences that shape our collective journey. Below, we share some of these compelling stories from the past year, contributed by our students, staff, and alumni.
Stories of and by Students
ROSALYN S. ROBINSON AND TAYLOR S. MANUEL MOORE
Doctor of Education Graduates
Mother and Daughter Earn Doctoral Degrees Together
In a rare and inspiring event, both mother and daughter, Rosalyn S. Robinson (EdD ’24) and Taylor S. Manuel Moore (EdD ’24), received their doctor of education in educational leadership at the May 2024 Pepperdine University commencement. Robinson, with a 23-year career in education, currently serves as a principal for Aspire Public Schools, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion in K–12 education. Moore, with 10 years of experience, is a director of special education for Inner City Education Foundation Public Schools and advocates for systemic change to support Black students and those with disabilities. Both alumnae reside in Hawthorne, California.
CALEB SPIRO
PsyD Student
A Journey of Resilience
As a child, I struggled with mental health after being bullied, but I held onto hope and developed a deep interest in resilience. Now, as a PsyD student, I am dedicated to understanding what makes youth resilient and how we can improve mental healthcare for children. My goal as a future pediatric clinical psychologist is to not only provide therapy but to revolutionize how we care for young people, especially those who have experienced trauma and engage in life-threatening behaviors. I aspire to bridge the gaps in our current understanding and treatment of childhood mental health.
EKATERINA ALYABYEVA
Graduate Assistant
From Siberia to Pepperdine: A Story of Redemption
Born and raised in the challenging environment of Siberia, I found my way to the United States as a professional athlete. My journey to Pepperdine University has been transformative, allowing me to pursue a degree in psychology and discover my passion for helping others. Through coaching and mentoring, I realized that my true calling is in supporting the mental health and well-being of children. Pepperdine has provided me with the knowledge and support to follow this path, and I am now training with the goal of opening my own practice in the future.
MICHELLE WATSON
PhD Student
International Policy Experience
In May 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Switzerland and Paris as part of the International Policy Experience course. Despite facing health challenges, I was determined to participate, and with faith, I did. The experience, from exploring Swiss culture to presenting at Pepperdine’s Château D’Hauteville, was life changing. This journey solidified my commitment to global leadership and change, and I am grateful for the support and encouragement from GSEP, which made this adventure possible.
KARINA PILIGUIAN
MA in Clinical Psychology Student
A Passion for Dance and Psychology
As a student at Pepperdine, I have been able to combine my passion for dance with my dedication to child and adolescent development. I am currently serving as a marriage and family therapy trainee, overseeing dance and movement therapy at New Directions for Youth, and I founded an activewear brand promoting self-love and empowerment. My journey has been shaped by my desire to make a positive impact on the community, and I am honored to be included in this year’s Dean’s Report.
DENISSE GONZALEZ
MA in Clinical Psychology Student (Aliento Program)
Overcoming Challenges to Pursue a Dream
Denisse Gonzalez faced immense health challenges during her time at Pepperdine, including COVID-19 complications, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis. Despite these obstacles, she returned to her studies, driven by a commitment to work with physically disabled patients and explore health psychology. Supported by her family and the Aliento community, Gonzalez’s resilience and determination have kept her on track toward achieving her goal of helping others navigate life with chronic illness and disability.
MISHELE YASHITA
MS in Applied Behavior Analysis Student
Finding Support and Inspiration at GSEP
The community that Yashita found at GSEP has been even more supportive than she hoped. Deeply inspired by the late Elizabeth Fong and ABA program director Adel Najdowski, Yashita is grateful for the dedication to student well-being that she has experienced at the school.
Stories by Staff
CALEB GARCIA
Administrative
Assistant, Psychology
“Halfway There”: A Story
Growing up in California, I was always fascinated by other states, which seemed exotic and full of promise. After college, my love for travel deepened, and I set a personal goal to visit all 50 states. In December of last year, I reached a significant milestone by visiting my 25th state, a journey made possible by the support of Pepperdine. Travel has allowed me to meet diverse people and experience the beauty and diversity of our nation. Each state offers something unique, and I look forward to exploring the remaining 25.
RENEE DORN (EDD ’13)
Director of Alumni Relations
A Journey of Leadership and Service
When I chose to pursue an EdD in organizational leadership at Pepperdine, I knew it was the right fit for my background in business, law, and education. The program not only deepened my understanding of leadership but also helped me realize my potential to make a greater impact in the nonprofit sector. Now, as the director of alumni relations at GSEP, I have the opportunity to bring forth creative projects and serve our community in meaningful ways. Pepperdine has been a place of growth, learning, and connection, and I am grateful for the incredible people I have met along the way.
LINA SAFA (EDD ’24) Research and Grants Manager From Lebanon to Leadership: A Transformational Journey
My doctoral journey at Pepperdine GSEP was far more than an academic pursuit; it was a life-changing experience. From the moment I joined the program, I felt a deep sense of belonging within the GSEP community. The support and mentorship I received from faculty, especially Farzin Madjidi, were instrumental in my growth. My dissertation on Lebanese women leaders in higher education reflects my passion for empowering women through education. Now, as the research and grants manager at GSEP, I am honored to contribute to the community that has given me so much.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The GSEP community is driven by a commitment to excellence, leadership, and service. This year, we are proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of our students and staff through acknowledgments that highlight their dedication, leadership, and positive impact on the Pepperdine community. Below, we share the recognitions submitted by our students and staff, celebrating those who have gone above and beyond in their roles.
Student Acknowledgments
FATIMA ORTA ARENAS
Recognized by Liliana Vasquez and Miguel Gallardo Fatima Orta Arenas is recognized for her dedication to academic growth and excellence. In January Arenas represented Aliento and GSEP at the 2025 Hawaii International Conference on Education, where she presented her research, “De Barrios to Dorms: Latinx College and College Students; Personal, Cultural, and Community Experiences with Mental Health.” Arenas shared that meeting other Latina professionals and receiving encouragement to publish her research was a transformative experience, further inspiring her academic journey.
LESLEY GARCIA
Recognized by Liliana Vasquez and Miguel Gallardo Lesley Garcia is honored for her leadership and commitment to supporting her peers. In her first year of the program, Garcia became actively involved with the Aliento Community Organization, where she served as community chair. She worked tirelessly to create events with community partners, providing personal and professional development opportunities for students. Her dedication to service extends beyond her role, as she has also volunteered her time to help peers access vital resources like CalFresh. Garcia’s commitment to her community continues to inspire those around her.
Staff Acknowledgments
ELLIE DUCK
Recognized by Tiffany Sarris
Ellie Duck, the manager of clinical training across all GSEP campuses, has been recognized for her exceptional leadership and transformative impact on the department. Duck’s leadership has drastically improved the student experience and provided her team with the support needed to achieve a sustainable work-life balance. Her innovative approach led to the creation of a virtual learning space for practicum students, which has significantly enhanced their ability to navigate the practicum process. Duck’s dedication, compassion, and problem-solving skills have unified the department and created a supportive and efficient work environment.
YAS HARDAWAY
Recognized by Sofia Henriquez Urbina
Yas Hardaway is recognized for her exemplary professionalism and the personal touch she brings to her work at GSEP. Hardaway’s deep listening skills and empathy make her a valued leader who consistently ensures that tasks are completed to the highest standards. Her ability to create a positive and supportive work environment has had a lasting impact on those around her.
SABRINA DELGADO-CASTELLON
Recognized by Sofia Henriquez Urbina
Sabrina Delgado-Castellon is celebrated for her role in connecting colleagues to the GSEP community and inspiring others through her achievements as both a staff member and a student. Her journey and encouragement have motivated others to pursue their goals and dream big.
RENEE DORN
Recognized by Sofia Henriquez Urbina
Renee Dorn is honored for her outstanding leadership and mentorship. Since my first day at GSEP, Dorn has helped me realize my potential and valued my contributions. Dorn’s calm and positive approach to leadership, combined with her respect for her team’s input, has created a supportive and empowering work environment. Her guidance has been instrumental in my professional and personal growth, making GSEP a place where talents are celebrated and authentic selves are embraced.
FACULTY PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
The faculty of Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology continue to contribute significantly to their fields through impactful research and scholarly publications. Their work not only advances academic knowledge but also enriches the educational experiences of our students. Below is a selection of recent publications and presentations by our esteemed faculty.
CARRIE CASTAÑEDA-SOUND
Program Director for MA Clinical Psychology Evening Format Program and Associate Professor of Psychology Books and Chapters
• Comas-Diaz, L., & Castañeda-Sound, C.L. (Eds.). (2024). Feminist Liberation Practice with Latinx Women. Routledge.
Castañeda-Sound, C.L., Gallardo, M., & Salgado, S. (2024). Unlearning Colonial Practices and (Re)envisioning Graduate Education in Psychology. In N. Chavez-Dueñas, H. Adames, & L. Comas-Díaz (Eds.), Decolonial Psychology: Toward Anticolonial Theories, Research, Training, and Practice. APA Press.
WEINA LI CHEN
Clinical Assistant Professor of Education Conference Presentations
• Terrell, D., & Chen, W. L. (2024, Mar). Empowering Underrepresented High School Students in College Preparation through Digital Storytelling. 2024 SITE Conference - Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education, Las Vegas, NV.
• Chen, W. L. (2024, Feb). The Applications of AI Drawing Technologies in Language Teaching. 2024 CABE Annual Conference.
• Liu, H., & Chen, W. L. (2023, Nov). The Applications of Positive Discipline in a Mandarin Language Classroom Setting. Fall 2023 California State LA Mandarin Conference.
• Chen, W. L., & Haniya, S. (2023, Nov). Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Doctoral Education in Global Leadership and Change. WERA-ERAS International Conference 2023, Nanyang Technology University (NTU), Singapore.
• Li, J., Ji, X., & Chen, W. L. (2023, Nov). Strengthening the Community: Uncovering Practices that Influence International Students’ Sense of Belonging. WERA-ERAS International Conference 2023, Nanyang Technology University (NTU), Singapore.
ERLANGER A. TURNER
Associate Professor of Psychology
Journal Articles
• Turner, E.A., Douglas, C., & Haseeb, A. (2024). Predictors of Mental Health Treatment in Black Men: Therapy Fears and Expectations about Counseling. Community Mental Health Journal, 60, 385–393. doi.org/10.1007/s10597-023-01183-1
• Metzger, I., Jernigan-Noesi, M., Jones, S.C.T., Turner, E.A., Saleem, F., Jackson, J., Anderson, R.A., Bartolomeo, L., Tineo, P., & Opara, I. (2024). Power to the People: Measuring Social Media and Mass Media Impact for Promotion and Tenure in Social and Applied Sciences. Higher Education Policy. link.springer.com/ article/10.1057/s41307-023-00337-w
LAURA HYATT
Professor of Education
Books and Conference Presentations
• Hyatt, L., & Roberts, C. (2024). The Dissertation Journey: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Writing, and Defending Your Dissertation (4th ed.). Sage-Corwin Publishing. (BestsellerSpring 2024)
Hyatt, L., Scott, K., & Weber, R. C. (2024). Learnings from an Architect, Bridger, and Catalyst (ABC) Leader. International Leadership Association’s 26th Global Conference, Chicago, IL.
• Hyatt, L., Voss, S., & Weber, R. (2024). Systems Thinking and Leader Optimism to Advance Positive Outcomes. 2024 American Educational Research Association Annual Meeting, Philadelphia, PA.
MELISSA HUY
Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Director
Journal Articles and Presentations
• Huy, M. (2023). Considerations of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Mental Health Apps. The California Psychologist, 56(2), 25—26.
• Huy, M. (2023). Faculty Wellness in the Online Education Forum: Preliminary Results and Resources. 2U/edX Educator Conference
• Rain, J., & Huy, M. (2023). Exploring Belonging at the Intersections of Your Role as an Educator, Scholar, and Colleague. P@P’s I.D.E.A. Training Series: Partnering Research and Practice Building Inclusion in the Classroom and Within Your Department
• Huy, M. (2023). Mindful Rest and Brain Advantage. Presentation at GSEP Research Symposium.
Huy, M. (2024, July). The Well-Being of Our Professors: Pepperdine’s Online Psychology Faculty Wellness Check. Presentation at GSEP Research Symposium
REPORT: GSEP SCHOLARSHIPS FOR FY24
In fiscal year 2024, GSEP awarded $5,778,849 in scholarships, reflecting a 22 percent increase since FY20. This significant growth demonstrates our ongoing commitment to making education more accessible and supporting the academic and professional goals of our diverse student body. Through strategic resource stewardship and generous donor contributions, GSEP continues to alleviate financial barriers, empowering students to focus on their studies and future leadership in education and psychology.