Engaging The Educators: Enhancing Faculty Support In Online Graduate Programs,
2025
University of San Diego
Engaging The Educators: Enhancing Faculty Support In Online Graduate Programs, Alexandra Constant
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
In this action research study, I explored how the University of San Diego’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education can better support faculty in increasing their presence in online graduate programs. Drawing from the literature on faculty engagement and student satisfaction in online education, I investigated two guiding questions: How do online graduate students perceive faculty engagement, and what support do faculty need to sustain high levels of engagement? Guided by Kemmis and McTaggart’s (2000) action research spiral, the four-phase study began with an analysis of student evaluations (n = 592), derived from 58 course sections, followed by a student …
Understanding First-Generation Students’ Needs And Sense Of Belonging In Online Graduate Programs,
2025
University of San Diego
Understanding First-Generation Students’ Needs And Sense Of Belonging In Online Graduate Programs, Jessica Guerrero
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
The purpose of this study is to explore first-generation graduate students’ needs and perception of their sense of belonging in online programs. This data can guide the development of effective practices for supporting and retaining these students. The research question driving this study is: how can I support first-generation students as they navigate challenges, achieve academic success, and strengthen a sense of belonging in online graduate programs? Through a mixed-methods approach, three cycles were used consisting of a focus group, individual interviews, and an online webinar to collect data. The themes that emerged in this study were the need for …
Beyond Brotherhood And Sisterhood: Leading With Awareness To Forge Inclusive Relationships In Fsl,
2025
University of San Diego
Beyond Brotherhood And Sisterhood: Leading With Awareness To Forge Inclusive Relationships In Fsl, Natalie O'Neal
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
The purpose of my study was to explore strategies that enhance fraternity and sorority members’ capacity to build relationships across identity differences at the University of San Diego (USD). The research question that guided my study was: How can I help USD’s Fraternity and Sorority Life Office provide a capacity-building model for fraternity and sorority members to cultivate relationships across identity differences? My research utilized three cycles of workshops, surveys, and interviews. Key findings highlight the essential role of identity work in fostering self-awareness and social awareness, the challenges of discussing identity in FSL, and the need for dedicated spaces …
Spirituality And Outdoor Recreation In Higher Education,
2025
University of San Diego
Spirituality And Outdoor Recreation In Higher Education, Sierra G. Hilton
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
The purpose of my project is to explore the role of spirituality in an outdoor recreation office called Outdoor Adventures at the University of San Diego. My project question is: How can I integrate spiritually focused activities in outdoor recreation to foster students’ faith and increase well-being? Themes that emerged included the perceived positivity of engaging with spirituality, the value of art in doing so, and the relevance of Catholic spirituality in the lives of college students and staff. Recommendations include the development of stronger partnerships with campus partners, the creation of a database for Catholic resources for student affairs …
Enhancing Peer Coach Learning Outcomes: Integrating Alumni Insights For Future Development,
2025
University of San Diego
Enhancing Peer Coach Learning Outcomes: Integrating Alumni Insights For Future Development, Kari Adams
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
My research aimed to enhance learning outcomes for the coaches participating in a peer coaching internship program. The research question was: how can I work and engage peer coach alumni to better support the professional development of future peer coaches? I incorporated the perspectives of alumni coaches to identify key areas for improvement to support the professional development of future peer coaches. I conducted three cycles: alumni reflections, workshops, and a roundtable resume discussion. A theme that emerged from alumni peer coach reflections were to provide opportunities to engage with more psychology professionals and integrate career readiness into the internship …
Improving Interconnectedness Among Student Affairs Conduct Processes On The University Of San Diego’S Campus,
2025
University of San Diego
Improving Interconnectedness Among Student Affairs Conduct Processes On The University Of San Diego’S Campus, Oliver H. Kushen
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
The purpose of my research was to learn how student conduct systems within The Division of Student Affairs at the University of San Diego (USD) could be improved by staff and students learning from one another. My research involved guiding staff and students from various conduct processes across campus to learn from each other through improved communication and restorative practices, while ensuring USD’s Mission was emphasized. Research cycles included restorative justice circles, interviews, and a survey. Common themes were the importance of the restorative mission, a focus on student wellness, and a desire to learn from one another through joint …
La Cultura Cura: Implementing Culturally-Relevant Wellness Programs For Latinx College Students,
2025
University of San Diego
La Cultura Cura: Implementing Culturally-Relevant Wellness Programs For Latinx College Students, Valentina Valenzuela
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
Latinx college students are the fastest growing demographic on college campuses. As this population continues to rise, institutions must adapt their programming to meet their unique needs. One key factor influencing Latinx success and retention is wellness. The purpose of this action research project was to investigate the relationship between culture and wellness and use this information to implement culturally-relevant wellness initiatives for Latinx students. The main research question that guided this study was: How can I incorporate culturally-relevant wellness events into United Front Multicultural Commons’ programming for Latinx students? I conducted three cycles that included a wellness event, plática …
An Integrated Approach To Supporting Undergraduate Students Through Wellness And Community,
2025
University of San Diego
An Integrated Approach To Supporting Undergraduate Students Through Wellness And Community, Nicole Manning
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
Students experience mounting levels of stress due to the demands of balancing academics and social relationships. These influences can cause negative effects on the mind and body. Empowering students with resources for holistic wellbeing could relieve stress, create a nurturing environment, and impact their overall success at University of San Diego (USD). My project assisted in a course where undergraduate students develop skills to thrive personally beyond their time at USD. The research question that drove my study was: How can I help develop a successful holistic wellness course to support students in relieving stress? I completed three cycles which …
Empowering Student Leaders: A Collaborative Approach To Professional Development In Higher Education,
2025
University of San Diego
Empowering Student Leaders: A Collaborative Approach To Professional Development In Higher Education, Kasandra J. Vela
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
The purpose of my research was to explore how integrating students as partners in professional development enhances student leader training. The study addressed gaps in student participation in training session planning, guided by two research questions: How can integrating students as partners in student leader professional development initiatives contribute to training success? And, what insights can be gained from including undergraduate student leaders in curriculum development for professional training? Research cycles included a survey, workshops, and reflective journaling. Themes that emerged were the importance of staff–student collaboration, student empowerment as co-creators, and the value of diverse perspectives. Findings showed that …
Empowering Voices: The Impact Of Collective Storytelling Within College Support Programs,
2025
University of San Diego
Empowering Voices: The Impact Of Collective Storytelling Within College Support Programs, Sara Rock
M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects
The Torero Renaissance Scholars Program (TRSP) supports undergraduate and graduate students who have experienced foster care, homelessness, or who are emancipated minors or in legal guardianship. My action research aimed to explore and improve TRSP practices related to sharing personal narratives, community building, and fostering mutual understanding between students, campus, and community partners. Using an action research model focused on community engagement, I conducted three research cycles involving narrative inquiry-based individual interviews and surveys to evaluate group activities. Findings revealed a tension around sharing personal stories and highlighted the importance of self-authorship and holistic mentorship. Interviews showed students prioritize resources …
Changing The Face Of Power: Understanding Black Female Clinical Supervisors Through The Superwoman Schema,
2025
Duquesne University
Changing The Face Of Power: Understanding Black Female Clinical Supervisors Through The Superwoman Schema, Shanelle V. Clay
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
According to the American Counseling Association Code of Ethics (2014), the counseling profession’s core values include honoring diversity and embracing a multicultural approach to both direct services and supervision. Despite the acknowledgement of multiculturalism in clinical supervision, there is minimal research on the impact of supervisors’ intersectionality on supervision dynamics. This qualitative research study will examine the experience of Black female clinical supervisors and the impact the Superwoman Schema has on their role in supervision. This phenomenological research is grounded in the Superwoman Schema Conceptual Framework and Black Feminist Thought. A total of five superordinate themes and 14 subordinate themes …
Hospital Organizations’ Obligation To Promote Spiritual Well-Being Among Nurses: Development Of A Normative Ethical Argument,
2025
Duquesne University
Hospital Organizations’ Obligation To Promote Spiritual Well-Being Among Nurses: Development Of A Normative Ethical Argument, Michael Jordan
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This dissertation presents an innovative strategy to promote the support of nurses' spirituality within hospital organizations. By focusing on the spiritual well-being of nurses by hospital organizations, with a natural extension into nursing schools, the approach aims to enhance nurse’s ability to protect their own spirituality, provide comprehensive spiritual care to patients, and increase nurse moral resilience. By investing in nurses' spirituality and spiritual growth, hospitals can potentially increase job satisfaction among nursing staff, improve patient care outcomes, and create a more holistic healing environment for both nurses and patients. As the nursing shortage continues and the number of nurses …
The Democratization Of Coaching And Development Through Peer Coaching In Groups,
2025
Case Western Reserve University
The Democratization Of Coaching And Development Through Peer Coaching In Groups, Richard E. Boyatzis
Engaged Management ReView
People want and need development at work and in life. The cost of typical development activities limits access to those in powerful or higher status positions. In addition, the efficacy of training programs in organizations and higher education as developmental activities have shown relatively poor results in terms of sustained, desired change. The effects of coaching seem more promising, but it is highly labor intensive and therefore costly. Peer coaching in groups (PCGs) offers a potentially efficacious developmental activity at no or very low cost to organizations or individuals. PCGs can be used throughout the world and invite participation regardless …
Transforming Criminal Justice Leadership With A Servant-Oriented Trauma-Informed Approach,
2025
Concordia University St. Paul
Transforming Criminal Justice Leadership With A Servant-Oriented Trauma-Informed Approach, Janina Cich
Forensic Scholars Today
This paper explores the transformative potential of a criminal justice leadership model by integrating principles of servant leadership, emotional intelligence, and trauma-informed care, focusing on rebuilding community trust, improving officer well-being, and fostering equitable, empathetic public service. This transformative module emphasizes humility, accountability, and emotional awareness to address the deep-rooted effects of trauma on both criminal justice personnel and the communities they serve. Through proactive strategies, such as open communication, cultural competence training, and mental health support, future leaders can cultivate resilient, community-focused agencies prioritizing healing, justice, and human dignity.
Position Utilization And Leadership Of Senior Woman Administrators In The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference,
2025
Winona State University
Position Utilization And Leadership Of Senior Woman Administrators In The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, Mattie J. Schimenz
Leadership Education Capstones
This study investigates the utilization and impact of the Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) position within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), focusing on job satisfaction and career confidence. Historically, women led collegiate women’s sports, but with the consolidation of men’s and women’s athletics under a single governance structure, female representation in leadership declined. While women make up 44% of NCAA athletes, only 27.2% of athletic directors are women (Statista, n.d.). The SWA role was created to ensure women have a voice in athletic department decision-making. This mixed-methods study explores whether the SWA role is fulfilling its original purpose of promoting …
Collaborative Leadership Approaches’ Impact On Student Athlete Participation,
2025
Winona State University
Collaborative Leadership Approaches’ Impact On Student Athlete Participation, Jacob Ledger
Leadership Education Capstones
The purpose of this study is to identify reasons for the decline in student athletes participating in high school football within the Big Nine Conference. The research is intended to identify several key reasons for the decline in youth sports, which contributes to high school sports, and ultimately football programs in the conference. The study also identifies two specific coaching and leadership styles and how they impact sports participation. Collaborative leadership and coaching styles compared to authoritative leadership and coaching styles. Using a qualitative research method using surveys and document review themes of sport specialization, Technology, burnout, Culture, and Feedback …
The Mighty C: A Fractal Model For Modern Creativity,
2025
State University of New York College at Buffalo - Buffalo State College
The Mighty C: A Fractal Model For Modern Creativity, Joe Todaro
Creativity and Change Leadership Graduate Student Master's Projects
The persistent ambiguity surrounding the definition of creativity has hindered its advancement across academic, educational, and professional settings. In response, this paper proposes an updated framework—The Mighty C—which defines creativity as the intrinsic human activity of generating meaningful, novel, and useful outcomes through deliberate process. This model addresses critical gaps in conventional definitions, particularly the frequent omission of meaningfulness, intentionality, and the uniquely human nature of creativity. It further emphasizes the recursive nature of these aspects across different levels of creative activity, represented through the structure of fractals. Drawing from scholarly models such as Rhodes’ 4Ps and Kaufman and Beghetto’s …
Optimal Time Of Training To Prioritize Sleep, Stress, Recovery And Performance In Student-Athletes,
2025
Winona State University
Optimal Time Of Training To Prioritize Sleep, Stress, Recovery And Performance In Student-Athletes, Ryan E. Mutzner
Leadership Education Capstones
This study investigated the impact of training time—morning versus afternoon—on the sleep, stress, recovery, and performance of high school student-athletes. With increasing demands placed on student-athletes, particularly during the academic year, understanding how training schedules influence both physiological and psychological well-being is critical. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from ten student-athletes over six training sessions through self-reported surveys and performance testing via Counter-Movement Jump (CMJ) assessments. The study found that afternoon athletes consistently reported longer sleep durations and higher peak performance, while morning athletes demonstrated better sleep quality and more consistent performance across sessions. Afternoon participants experienced higher …
Bridging The Gap: Analyzing The Impact Of The On Track Program On Academic Achievement And Retention Rates Of Academic Warning Students,
2025
Winona State University
Bridging The Gap: Analyzing The Impact Of The On Track Program On Academic Achievement And Retention Rates Of Academic Warning Students, Tyler J. Peil
Leadership Education Capstones
This thesis examines the effectiveness of a college program called the OnTrack Program, which addresses achievement gaps, improves retention rates, and boosts academic performance for its students considered "at-risk." The study analyzes data from two groups: Students who qualified for the On Track program and chose not to participate, and students who enrolled in the On Track program. Through both quantitative measures of research, such as GPA and retention statistics, as well as qualitative measures of researchers, such as student testimonials, the research investigates whether the targeted academic support significantly impacts students' educational outcomes and student experience. By evaluating the …
A First-Generation 4-H Youth Member Intervention Framework To Support Members To Enter, Engage, And Persist In The Program,
2025
University of Hawaii at Manoa
A First-Generation 4-H Youth Member Intervention Framework To Support Members To Enter, Engage, And Persist In The Program, Jeremy Elliott-Engel, Nicholas A. A Morris
Journal of Youth Development
The First-Generation 4-H Youth Member (FG4-HYM) Intervention Framework is an organizational management perspective for preparing 4-H youth programs that supports the welcoming of youth and families that have no previous experience with the organization. Using the Bronfenbrenner ecological model, we explore the multiple layers of 4-H program management that support the participation of FG4-HYM in the 4-H club program. This framework provides a tool for 4-H professionals to use when assessing their program’s readiness to provide high-quality programming to all audiences, regardless of their families’ previous experience with the organization. This framework represents the foundational requirements that an organization must …
