Message from the Dean
continues to thrive! During 2023-24, our enrollments have erships have expanded, research productivity has nd philanthropic and grant funding support have reached As dean, I am incredibly grateful for the dedication, vision, d consistent commitment of everyone in our college to our sion of preparing transformative educators, counselors, nd school, community, and higher education leaders It is r and a privilege to work alongside our brilliant students, ulty, deeply dedicated staff, and an outstanding network of ommunity partners.
that follow you’ll learn about our new programs – including rst PK-3 credential program, a fully on-line MS degree in guage Pathology, and our newly launched Male Educators of Color Initiative. You’ll also read about some of the ground-breaking work our faculty are leading – including national awards, research, and programming focused on math equity, disability studies, school counseling, neurodiversity, and K16 pathways. And – most importantly - you’ll hear directly from some of our amazing students, faculty, and alumni as they share their experiences, aspirations, and motivations
The years ahead will bring new challenges The landscape of education – from early childhood through postsecondary – is likely to encounter increased scrutiny. Students, families, teachers, professors, and education leaders will be asked to navigate difficult terrain; and some may face direct threats. In the face of potential adversity, I have great confidence in the passion, strength, and resolve of our college community. Together we will continue to work toward a more equitable, just, and inclusive future.
In Solidarity –
Heather Lattimer, Ed D Dean, Connie L. Lurie College of Education San José State University
HEATHER LATTIMER DEAN
National Recognition
In July 2024, San José State University’s Connie L. Lurie College of Education was awarded the Christa McAuliffe Excellence in Teacher Education Award from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), an organization of statesupported colleges and universities that offer degree programs leading to bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees. This prestigious award recognizes programs that demonstrate success in improving P-12 student outcomes and integrating evidence-based practices.
The McAuliffe award is recognition of the tremendous work of Lurie College's students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners to grow and diversify our educator preparation programs. Over the past six years we’ve grown our outreach, increased scholarship
support, strengthened student success supports, built new partnerships with P-12 school districts and communitybased organizations, and launched specially designed initiatives such as our Ethnic Studies Residency Program, Bilinguisimo y Justicia bilingual education program and our Male Educators of Color Initiative. This work has led to significant growth in our program overall, with the highest rates of growth coming from students who identify as first generation and/or students of color. The Christa McAuliffe Award celebrates the power and impact of this work and recognizes SJSU and the Lurie College of Education as a national leader.
“All children deserve to have teachers who understand their lived experiences, recognize their strengths, celebrate their successes, and share their joys.” -Dean, Heather Lattimer
Dean Lattimer Recognized at YWCA’s Tribute to Women Awards
Dean Heather Lattimer of the Lurie College of Education was celebrated at the Golden Gate Silicon Valley YWCA's 40th Annual Tribute to Women Awards for her outstanding leadership in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This prestigious event honors exceptional women leaders across technology, healthcare, education, nonprofit, and business sectors, who have made transformative contributions in their fields and communities. The annual awards event highlights the impactful roles women play in executive and professional capacities across the Bay Area. Dean Lattimer's recognition reflects her commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment and advancing equity in education
Courtesy of Sara Hertwig Photography for AASCU
Adapted from interview by Julia Halprin Jackson
Photo by D Kelly Images
WE ARE
Community Engaged Interdisciplinary
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Minors:
Child & Adolescent Development
Deaf Education
Special Education
Undergraduate Degrees:
Child & Adolescent Development
Communicative Disorders
& Sciences
Interdisciplinary Studies; Concentration in Educational & Community Leadership
At San José State University’s Lurie College of Education, we prepare transformative educators, counselors, therapists, and school, community, & higher education leaders.
“Through the Male Educators of Color Initiative (MECI), San José State is not only breaking down barriers but also ensuring that future classrooms include educators who serve as role models and bring unique perspectives. MECI is an essential step in creating diverse, representative classrooms that better reflect the experiences and identities of our students and communities ”
Credentials:
Multiple Subject
PK-3 Early Childhood
Education (ECE) Specialist
Instruction
Pupil Personnel Services -
School Counseling
Single Subject
Special Education
Speech-Language Pathology
HenryYoung
GraduateStudent ‘25MATeaching
“Our mission provides the space to truly develop the educators we need in our education systems to support our diverse student body in California. To work towards educational equity, we have to understand how inequity manifests--this is the basis of our programs in educational leadership I am proud to work closely with students to break down these difficult concepts and develop leaders ready to engage in transformational leadership.”
LilianaE.Castrellón,Ph.D.
Explore Lurie College Academics
SkyeSajous-Turner ChADClubPresident
“As a Child and Adolescent Development (ChAD) major and President of the ChAD Club, I can proudly say that Lurie College of Education has given me the skills and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally Through its supportive community and diverse learning experiences, I’ve gained leadership, communication, and practical skills that will shape my future in early childhood development.”
LURIE
Culturally Sustaining
Holistic
Our work extends across disciplines, valuing and sustaining the linguistic and cultural practices of those we serve. We build a supportive, inclusive environment rooted in belonging, connectedness, and appreciation.
GabrielBernal GraduateStudent
‘26MSSpeech-LanguagePathology
“As a male Filipino/Hawaiian graduate student, there are not many clinicians in speech-language pathology like me Despite this, I always feel supported in my professional and academic development by the faculty and staff of the Lurie College of Education. They encourage us to explore evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and interdisciplinary therapy approaches!”
“I love being a part of Lurie College because this place allows me to grow, evolve, and explore who I am as a Black and Indigenous scholar, researcher, and professor! As a former K-12 teacher, and principal, I look forward to using my educational leadership experiences to train new counselors, and collaborate with my amazing colleagues.”
CynthiaTeniente-Matson,Ed.D. President SanJoséStateUniversity
Academic Programs
Master’s Degrees:
Child & Adolescent Development
Counseling & Guidance
PK-12 School Leadership
Higher Education Leadership
Special Education
Speech-Language Pathology
Teaching
Doctoral Degree:
Educational Leadership (Ed.D)
Centers & Institutes
CenterforInnovationin
VeneiceGuillory-Lacy,Ph.D. AssistantProfessor CounselorEducation
“San José State is bridging the persistent diversity discrepancy between students in P-12 education and those who educate them. SJSU’s Connie L. Lurie College of Education is leading the way in program implementation aimed at increasing the diversity pipeline within the education workforce As an anchor institution of Silicon Valley, we embrace pedagogy that ensures our graduates are role mores as transformative educators, counselors, therapists, school and community leaders.”
AppliedEducationPolicy
EarlyChildhoodInstitute
HealthyDevelopment CommunityClinic
Institutefor
EmancipatoryEducation
Institutefor
RegenerativeFutures
Photo courtesy of the Office of the President
LURIE COLLEGE
AT-A-GLANCE
Increase in Student Support
Increase in Lurie College Funding Awarded*
$832,780 Teacher Residency Scholarships and Stipends Awarded
College also
"The darkest nights are the most difficult. With so much happening in my life, I was determined to finish my credentials, but I was under a huge financial crisis due to unavoidable circumstances. I could see closed doors with room for no light, and suddenly, I became aware of this Lurie College Student Hardship Scholarship. I am thankful to the college for this support, especially when I could not see any ray of hope. I want to thank everyone involved in initiating this scholarship for allowing me to stay determined."
-Graduate
Transformative Educators, New Leadership, New
“One of the many things I love about Lurie College is working with colleagues who are committed to student success and work that has a meaningful impact on our community In my role as Interim Associate Dean, I am excited to support our students, faculty and staff this coming year to accomplish th
ELLEN MIDDAUGH, PH.D.
INTERIM ASSOCIATE DEAN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, CHILD & ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT
“I am in a program, now in our elev committed to developing leaders who to work theories of change and improv situations that are quite ‘notorious’ fo challenging. Our Ed.D. faculty - 34 core amazing, inspirational, and well acc respective areas of exp
FERDIE RIVERA, PH.D.
DIRECTOR OF DOCTORATE
IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP, ED D PROFESSOR, MATHEMATICS EDUCATION
When serving students and colleagues in my new leadership role, I often reflect on my experiences of navigating the unfamiliar cultures and systems of the higher education as a former international student, learning about education systems as an immigrant parent and developing a professional career in speech-language pathology as a non-native English speaker and a faculty career as woman of color.
PEI-TZU TSAI, PH.D.
DEPARTMENT CHAIR AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, COMMUNICATIVE DISORDERS & SCIENCES
Leading with Purpose
Faculty, and Promotions
N GHAFFARI, PH.D.
ARTMENT OF ELOR EDUCATION
College because of my passion d research and praxis I hope to rant community and beyond iberatory and decolonial ways of Color in higher education.”
ROBERT MARX, PH.D.
DEPARTMENT OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT
I have grown so much as a scholar, teacher, and community member since coming to the Lurie College of Education, and I am so grateful for all of the opportunities both to learn and to apply my skills in support of the college's mission of emancipatory education.”
“"I love being a part of the LCOE because I have the best colleagues in the world who as scholars, educators, and humans push my thinking and inspire me to be a force for good every day. And the amazing students we get to work with - they give me hope for the future as we face immense challenges for the planet and humanity "
MARIA FUSARO, PH.D.
DEPARTMENT OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT
“Lurie College is a vibrant community that creates so many opportunities to engage and to advance in your career. Our new PK-3 Credential program creates a new way for passionate early educators to deepen their practice and to ensure that public schools are ready for all of our youngest learners ”
s Assistant Professor
Earned Tenure & Promoted to Associate Professor
Earned Tenure & Promoted to Associate Professor
Promoted to Full Professor
New Initiatives that
LaunchingtheMaleEducatorsofColorInitiative
In summer 2024, Lurie College welcome our inaugural cohort of the Male Educators of Color Initiative (MECI), a fellowship program aimed at enhancing the representation and success of male educators of color in K-12 classrooms. MECI Director Luis Poza, Ph.D., a faculty member in the Department of Teacher Education, emphasizes the importance of having male educators of color, especially in schools serving diverse populations.
“It’s crucial for students to see themselves in multiple roles within the school environment. When students can identify with their teachers— whether through language, cultural background, or shared values they can envision broader possibilities for their own futures,”
- Luis Poza, Director of MECI
MECI fellows receive comprehensive support, including scholarships, housing assistance, and priority placement in SJSU Teacher Residencies. The program focuses on culturally sustaining curricula, mentorship, and wellness resources to ensure fellows thrive personally and professionally. “Our goal is to create an environment where fellows not only receive financial aid but also access mentorship from community leaders and wellness resources,” Poza adds.
The fellowship program is open to candidates pursuing SJSU’s teaching credential and master’s degree programs who are committed to serving diverse student populations This initiative is made possible through the generous support of the Sobrato Foundation, whose commitment to educational equity is vital to the program’s success.
Strengthening Career Pathways Through
San José State University is leading efforts to streamline college and career pathways in education, health, and technology for students in the San José Region through the San José K-16 Collaborative. With $4 million in funding from California’s K16 Collaborative Grant Program, SJSU is working alongside partner K-12 districts and community colleges to increase college access through dual enrollment coursework, enhanced advising and family engagement, articulated academic pathways, and hands-on work-based learning experiences.
The K16 collaborative grant allows us to further SJSU’s commitment to providing access to a transformative university education for students from within our local community,” explains Lurie College Dean Heather Lattimer. “The work that we are undertaking in collaboration with K12, community college, and industry partners will strengthen academic pathways into the high demand career fields of education, health and technology.”
Janene Perez, Director of the San José K16 Collaborative, explains that SJSU is partnering with participating school districts and community colleges to offer dual enrollment opportunities By offering college-level courses on high school campuses at no cost to the students, the collaborative will enable students to earn transferable college credit, potentially saving them time and money on their pathway to a degree.
Students tour San José State University
AdvanceEquity
California’sFirstPK-3Teaching CredentialProgram
Lurie College is proud to be the first in the state to launch California’s new PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential. This new credential is designed to prepare aspiring teachers to work with children ages 3 through grade 3, spanning over three full-time semesters. Our unique program design offers specialized courses, fieldwork, and the option to earn a Master's degree and/or Bilingual Authorization. The initiative emphasizes inclusion and was developed as a collaborative between the departments of Child and Adolescent Development, Special Education, and Teacher Education Lurie College’s PK-3 program was the first in California approved by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing
The PK-3 program’s interdisciplinary approach ensures that teacher candidates receive a well-rounded and comprehensive education, preparing them to design and implement learning activities that are developmentally appropriate and inclusive. Maria Fusaro, Ph.D., PK-3 Program Coordinator, explains that the credential “provides space for early childhood perspectives to be pushed up into elementary school, fostering autonomy and engagement in young learners.” David Whitenack, Ph.D., Chair of Teacher Education, hopes the program will attract a broad pool of credential candidates, especially multilingual educators. The program is also designed to provide career and salary advancement opportunities for midcareer early childhood educators, especially those who wish to work in the state’s newly expanded transitional kindergarten (TK) classrooms. The PK-3 credential program represents a crucial step in shaping educators to meet the needs of young learners and elevating the early childhood profession.
the San José K16 Collaborative
San José K16 Collaborative partners include East Side Union High School District, Milpitas Unified School District, San José Unified School District, Evergreen Valley Community College, and San José City College. In addition, the collaborative is supported by industry and philanthropic partners including the Sobrato Foundation, the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group.
David Palter, Ph.D., Senior Director of Higher Education and Workforce Development at the Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG), explains, “Our role in the Collaborative is to leverage the considerable talent among SVLG member companies to advance opportunities for students across the work-based learning continuum, from networking and mentorship, to project-based learning, internships, apprenticeships and full-time hiring.”
“Ourgoalistoaddressequityearlyon byprovidingexposuretocareersin education,health,andtechnology throughdualenrollmentcoursework andwork-basedlearningexperiences.”
-JanenePerez, DirectorofSJSUK16Collaborative
California Dual Enrollment Equity Conference
Adapted from interview by Julia Halprin Jackson
Strengthening Access: New Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology Program Growth
This fall, Lurie College and the Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences launched a new online Master of Science (MS) in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) program, known as Speech-Language Pathology Education and Applied Knowledge and Skills (SPEAKS). This program expands on our commitment to ensure educational access and opportunity for aspiring speech-language pathologists who are committed to serving their communities Open to students from throughout California, the program provides learners with an in-depth exploration of the diverse fields of speech, language, and communication sciences. It empowers students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the profession. Wendy Quach, Ph.D., Program Director, emphasizes the program’s significance:
“The new online MS-SLP program will provide opportunities for students who cannot attend campus due to distance or financial challenges There is a national and state need for more speech-language pathologists, and this program aims to increase services for individuals with communication disorders.”
- Wendy Quach, Program Director
Covering topics such as articulation and phonological disorders, fluency disorders, voice disorders, dysphagia, and neurogenic communication disorders, the program prepares students to address diverse communication challenges. Students blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical practice in a collaborative cohort format that enhances engagement. With fieldwork opportunities close to home, SPEAKS students can apply their learning in their local communities. Through this program, students become catalysts for positive change, guided by evidence-based, ethical, and multicultural frameworks to serve our diverse state.
Expanding Opportunity: Growing the Doctoral Program
Now in its eleventh year, the Educational Leadership Doctorate (Ed D ) program at Lurie College expands to welcome more students through new pathways and formats. Starting from Summer 2024, the program is available through both fully online and hybrid modalities. We’ve also streamlined pathways for students in our Educational Leadership MA programs to start their doctorate program while completing their master's degree. Next summer, we’ll launch a partnership with the Santa Clara County Office of Education to offer a combined Ed.D./Preliminary Administrative Credential Program.
These expanded opportunities have led to significant program growth, with 35 students enrolled in the newest cohort. To complement the student growth, we’ve recruited outstanding research-active faculty from throughout the college and across the university to serve as dissertation advisors and mentors. This past year, Ed.D. students presented with their faculty advisors at state and national conferences, including the
American Educational Research Association (AERA) and the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED), and traveled to Spain for a global field experience in partnership with the University of Cordoba.
“Our Ed.D. Program has recently been experiencing tremendous growth because the training, experiences, and opportunities we provide attract students who seek to become agents of, and catalysts for, transformative change.”
- Ferdie Rivera, Ed.D. Director
Ed D Educational Leadership Cohorts 9 & 10 at the University of Cordoba during their global field experience in Spain
Teaching Excellence
Special Education Professor Saili Kulkarni Recognized as SJSU Outstanding Professor of the Year
Department of Special Education Associate Professor, Saili Kulkarni, Ph.D., was recognized as the San José State University Outstanding Professor for 20232024 This esteemed award highlights Kulkarni’s commitment to teaching excellence, student success, and promoting inclusive practices in education. Her teaching emphasizes culturally sustaining and anti-ableist practices, and she actively mentors special education teachers of color through affinity groups, alumni connections, and guidance in pursuing graduate and professional opportunities.
Kulkarni was also awarded the 2024 Foundation for Child Development Young Scholars Program Grant for her project, "Reducing Harmful Discipline Practices for Young Children of Color with Disabilities." This project addresses the long term impact of inequitable behavior management practices by creating an online professional learning series for early childhood educators, families, teachers, and administrators. Grounded in Disability Studies Critical Race Theory, Kulkarni’s work challenges conventional discipline methods and advocates for more equitable alternatives. Her dedication to equity and justice in both research and teaching positions her as a leading voice in advancing inclusive education practices.
“I am deeply honored to have been selected as one of the 2024 Young Scholars for the Foundation of Child Development. As one of the first scholars to incorporate a framework of Disability Studies Critical Race Theory (DisCrit) for the foundation, I will be analyzing discipline disparities for young children of color with disabilities and work closely with families, educators, and leaders to support teachers to reimagine behavior and discipline in early childhood classrooms I am thrilled to co-develop a learning series for teachers that aims to shift classroom practices and discipline policies ”
-Saili Kulkarni, Associate Professor
Counseling Professor Aubrey Uresti Recognized as
Educator of the Year
Department of Counselor Education Assistant Professor, Aubrey Uresti, Ph D , has been named the 2024 Counselor Educator of the Year by the California Association of School Counselors for her transformative impact on students and school counseling. Uresti is known for empowering students, especially those facing adversity. Her research on adolescents with incarcerated parents addresses critical gaps in student support systems.
“I have taught in countless classrooms over the past 14 yearsmany treasured, a few challenging, and all uniquely memorable. With every classroom I enter, I always aim to bring my best self to teaching and community building.”
-Aubrey Uresti, Assistant Professor
Her dedication to fostering belonging and resilience in students is reflected in her teaching and research, which shape real-world practices in schools. By addressing grief, peer victimization, and urban education, Uresti ensures students receive holistic support, both academically and emotionally. This recognition highlights Uresti’s dedication to student well-being and her profound influence in training future school counselors committed to transforming students’ lives.
Aubrey Uresti honored at the 2024 CASC Conference Awards Night
Faculty Excel in
Cultivating Diversity and Clinical Competency
Through Project INCLUDE
Lurie College and the Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences are excited to announce the launch of Project INCLUDE - Integrating Neurodiversity & Cultural-Linguistic Understanding and Differences in Education. This five-year initiative, funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, is dedicated
to increasing the diversity and clinical competence of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) committed to working with culturally and linguistically diverse autistic children and their families.
“Through workshops, mentorship, and community engagement, the project aims to equip future speech-language pathologists with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to work effectively with culturally and linguistically diverse individuals with autism and their families By promoting cultural humility, Project INCLUDE hopes to improve the quality of care and outcomes for these individuals, ensuring that they receive the support they need to thrive ”
Supporting re multilingual, speak a language other than English as their first language, and/or are from historically marginalized communities requires that SLPs have specialized skills. Project INCLUDE students will participate in specially-designed workshops, mentorship, and practicum experiences and will receive financial support for their studies. Project INCLUDE is led by faculty Wendy Quach, Ph.D., Eun Ae Choi, Ph.D., and Pei-Tzu Tsai, Ph.D., who will document program successes and assess program outcomes to help inform future policy and practice for the preparation of SLPs nationwide
Project INCLUDE aims to create a brighter future by increasing the number of culturally effective SLPs who can make a real impact in their communities. The efforts of this project will improve outcomes for autistic children and their families, ensuring everyone receives the support they need to thrive.
External Grants Awarded at Over 5 1 million!
In last year’s impact report, we reported an impressive 4-fold increase in external grant funding. In AY 2023-24, our Lurie College faculty exceeded this trajectory, securing over $10 million in funds to support innovations in research and practice across all of our LCOE departments.
“It has been exciting to see the hard work of our talented faculty recognized and supported.”
-Ellen Middaugh, Interim Associate Dean
- Wendy Quach, Project INCLUDE Lead
Project INCLUDE leads:
Eun Ae Choi, Ph D (top), Wendy Quach, Ph D (right), and Pei-Tzu Tsai, Ph D (not pictured)
Grant Funded Research AdvancingEquityinMathEducation
throughEMERG
Sandra Zuniga Ruiz, Ph D , Assistant Professor in the Department of Teacher Education, was recognized for her vision and expertise this year when she was invited to join the prestigious inaugural cohort of the Equity in Math Education Research Grant (EMERG) Scholars
This program, funded by the National Academy of Education and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, supports research aimed at creating equitable and ambitious mathematical learning experiences for K-12 students, specifically targeting traditionally underserved populations, including African-American, Latinx, Indigenous communities, and those experiencing persistent intergenerational poverty.
“My work is about creating mejores futuros for young people. It is grounded in my own experiences as a Mexicana inmigrante and influenced by Chicana/Latina feminist perspectives. I aim to understand how teachers of color develop understandings of race and justice within mathematics and to foster a community of care and sustenance for these educators ”
- Sandra Zuniga Ruiz, Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor Zuniga Ruiz is dedicated to shifting the current narrative in math education by centering the voices, stories, and experiences of teachers and students who have been historically marginalized. Her two-year research project aims to co-create with Latinx elementary math educators a vision for anti-racist math teaching that challenges the systemic racism endemic in education Her work empowers teachers to challenge dominant narratives and create imaginative spaces of freedom in which students’ dignity and identities are affirmed
Increase in
Over the Last Academic Year 395%
Research Funding
Student Research
Engaging undergraduate and graduate students in research is a high impact practice with direct benefits for student learning, retention and graduation rates, and readiness for career success. Lurie College faculty engage our students in research through their academic coursework, as research assistants for faculty-led projects, and by mentoring student-led research initiatives. In addition to internal college grants to support student research, many faculty secure external research grants to fund students as co-researcher, co-presenters, and co-authors on major research studies.
“It was an honor and a privilege to represent San José State University and, more specifically, Lurie College of Education with a 2nd place win at the 38th Annual Student Research CSU, Cal Poly! This achievement would not have been possible without the consistent support and encouragement from several ChAD faculty members. I'd like to thank Dr. Bang for her seminar "Demystifying Research," which opened my eyes to the possibility of research as a career - and my faculty research advisor, Dr Izenstark, for the opportunity to work with her, along with all her knowledge, patience, and support throughout the project. It was a truly amazing experience!”
BARBARA BOONE
MA ‘24 STUDENT CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT
“Being a research assistant has given me a strong foundational grasp on what it takes to conduct ethical, relevant, and effective research. I am incredibly grateful for the invaluable opportunity Dr McNiece has provided me with and would highly recommend this experience to any student who is interested in either research or doctoral studies in the future!”
ANDREW CHAKALIAN
MA ‘24 STUDENT COUNSELOR EDUCATION
“I’m a high school English teacher for almost two decades. The Doctorate of Educational Leadership program (Ed.D.) has enabled me to become a research practitioner my work and research is not theoretical, it’s real and applicable to my students, colleagues, and my life I had no idea of the magnitude of an Ed.D. degree until this Lurie College program came into my life. I’ve come to believe that an Ed.D. is a degree of disruption to status quo, transformation of pedagogy and praxis, and commitment to equity and social change”
JAMES EGISTO AGUIRRE
ED.D. ‘24 STUDENT
DOCTORATE IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Presenting at the Western Psychological Association Convention
Outstanding Alumni
Tayo Enna: Lurie College Alum of the Year
At our 2nd Annual Lurie College Alumni Celebration in April 2024, we were thrilled to recognize Tayo Enna as our Alumnus of the Year. Mr. Enna has dedicated 18 years to shaping young minds as a Kindergarten teacher at STEAM@Stipe Elementary School in the Oak Grove School District in East San José. During many of those years, Mr. Enna has been the only Black male educator at his school and at times the only Black male educator in his district. At the heart of Mr. Enna’s teaching is his ability to build meaningful relationships with his students. He empowers their leadership, supports their growth, and expands possibilities in their lives.
In 2022, Mr. Enna launched The Young Black Scholars Club, an after-school program that supports Black and biracial students in grades K-3. Under his leadership, this program has built a strong connection to San José State University and provides elementary students with a vision of future educational opportunities. Mr. Enna’s commitment to education extends into the community through his Anti-Racist Parent Workshops, participation in the EdTrust West Advisory Council, and articles featured in the Huffington Post and KQED.
Highlight of student work Highlight of student work Highlight of student work
A proud Spartan, Mr. Enna earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from San José State University. He is an active member of the Lurie College Alumni community. Each year he nominates several of his elementary students for our Future Educator awards and has twice served as the inspirational speaker for the Future Educator Awards Ceremony. His insights were instrumental in the development of our new Male Educators of Color Initiative (see p. 9) and he currently serves as a community mentor for the program.
Alice
(Cho-Kui)
Wong: Early Career Professional Award
Alice (Cho-Kui) Wong (MS in Speech-Language Pathology, ‘23), has been awarded the 2024 Distinguished Early Career Professional Award by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This prestigious award honors outstanding professionals within their first five years of practice, with Ms. Wong standing out as one of a handful individuals nationwide to receive this accolade.
“I have dedicated myself to impactful volunteer projects with the International Aphasia Movement and Bay Area Swallowing Support. These experiences have enriched my skills as a clinician, allowing me to make meaningful differences for culturally and linguistically diverse populations in outpatient rehabilitation.”
-Alice (Cho-Kui) Wong, ‘23 MS SLP
Ms Wong’s bilingual skills and passion for helping others have already made a lasting impact As a Speech-Language Pathologist, she is committed to providing culturally responsive care to the communities she serves. Her ability to bridge language and communication barriers has set her apart. As a future leader in her field she will undoubtedly help to shape the next generation of SLPs, continuing her legacy of excellence and care.
InMemoriam
Patty Swanson: A Legacy of Leadership and Compassion
Patty Swanson, Ph.D., was more than a dedicated educator; she was a leader, mentor, and fierce advocate for her students and colleagues. Joining San José State University in 1997 as a member of the Department of Elementary Education, Patty went on to serve as the chair of the Department of Teacher Education at the Lurie College of Education She led with compassion, determination, and unwavering generosity, always carrying a teacher’s heart and placing the needs of her students and colleagues at the forefront of her work.
“Theworldtakestheirreplaceabletimeandagain,andit’salwaystoomuch tobear.Webraceforthelargemoments–stuffsomeKleenexinapocket onthewaytoamemorial–butthesmallonespullusupshort:hernameon thelockersin334,patriciaswanson@sjsueduonanemailthread Fading echoes.Iholdhermemoryclosely,andIrealizethatthedepthofour sadnessisameasureofhowluckywearetohavesharedinherlifeatall.”
-GrinnellSmith,DepartmentofTeacherEducation
In honor of Patty’s profound legacy, we are honored to announce the establishment of the Patty Swanson Scholarship Fund. This endowed scholarship will support students in elementary teacher education who share Patty’s dedication to bilingual education and mathematics education two of her greatest passions. The fund will provide scholarships in Patty’s name in perpetuity, ensuring that her impact continues for generations to come.
Patty’s influence will live on in the students, families, and colleagues she inspired, as well as through this lasting scholarship in her honor Though she is deeply missed, her legacy of love, leadership, and compassion will carry forward
Swanson
Philanthropy Senator Becky Morgan: A Lifelong Dedication to Education
In 1968, Rebecca "Becky" Morgan and her husband, Jim, moved to Palo Alto with their two children as Silicon Valley began emerging from its pastoral roots. Originally from Vermont, Sen Morgan balanced family life while supporting Jim's career as CEO of Applied Materials Achieving great success in business and as an elected leader, Sen Morgan has always been deeply aware of the challenges surrounding early childhood education.
Reflecting on her own parenting, Sen. Morgan says, “I have two fabulous adult children, but I didn’t feel very prepared to be a parent. I never had education in emotional and mental development. And so I want for others what I never had.”
This belief in the importance of early childhood education shaped her career, starting with her decision to run for Palo Alto Unified School District. She later became a member of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors and then a California State Senator, where she chaired the Senate Select Committee on Child Care and Development and advocated for key legislation.
Through the Morgan Family Foundation, Sen. Morgan and her family have supported many educational causes, including supporting scholarships for Lurie College of Education students pursuing careers in early childhood education. Sen. Morgan expressed her excitement for SJSU’s new PK-3 teaching credential (see. p. 9) aimed at preparing educators to teach from preschool through third grade. She believes this will help address the region’s diverse needs and improve student outcomes. Becky’s dedication to children’s education remains her enduring legacy
“Service is in my genes... My father served on the school board, and I’ve always found joy in community engagement. Supporting early childhood educators is invaluable to creating lasting change.”
-Sen. Becky Morgan
Photos courtesy of Sen. Becky Morgan.
Adapted from interview by Julia Halprin Jackson.
