Since 2009, I've taught part-time in higher education on the US healthcare system and its management at a major university in Texas.

My teaching experience stems from a love of learning, enjoyment from working with college students, and a 40+ year career in healthcare, including a 12-year tenure as a hospital CEO and 15 years as an academic medical practice CEO.

As I prepared to step back from day-to-day management into retirement, the Dean I worked under suggested that I continue teaching as an adjunct professor. This idea resonated with me, as I've always found joy in helping the next generation.

Being in and around academics, I had long dreamed of earning a doctorate for the transformative power of education. I was excited about how it would help me in the classroom and in other aspects of my life. After researching several schools, I chose the online EdD program at Spalding University. This decision has been life-changing and extraordinary.

The faculty at Spalding inspired me to learn new things and view old concepts in new ways. They challenged me, particularly through my capstone project. This qualitative research endeavor entailed interviewing medical school deans from a five-state area. about their readiness to accept medical school curriculum changes being advocated to address challenges in the US healthcare system. It was a journey of discovery and growth.

My educational experience at Spalding University has shown me that achieving a dream is never too late. I encourage you to explore your educational aspirations today at Spalding University.

Brent Magers, Online EdD Graduate & Texas Resident

Why Spalding University?

When I selected Spalding, I had a feeling that it would be a great experience, but I had no idea it would be this good and this transformational.

When I was looking for a doctoral program, having a program that was offered online was a major point for me, as well as having a program that offered relevant coursework. I wanted to be able to take what I was learning in my courses and utilize that on my own campus in the work that I was doing with my students, faculty, and staff.

I also wanted a guiding experience through the [Capstone] writing process. I didn't want to make it through my coursework and be left on my own to write.

I wanted to make sure that I had good connections and good contact with my professors and the individuals who were helping me get to the end so that I could successfully complete my degree on time.

When I took all those characteristics, Spalding University was at the top of the list.

What was your experience completing the Capstone Project?

The coursework that they provided was relevant, useful and impactful, and they also offered a guided experience of writing the capstone every step of the way.

I had contact and communication with my professors. I got quick and quality feedback, so that I was able to produce the best Capstone Project that I possibly could. I'm grateful for the opportunity to successfully complete the capstone and be able to call myself Doctor Jocelyn Wright.

Tell us more about your Capstone topic.

Because of the wonderful professors and my incredible cohort, I was able to produce a Capstone on racial minority student perspectives on higher education leadership. This is directly related to the work that I do every single day on my campus and the students that I work with.

Being able to understand what leadership qualities they find value in, and how they interact with leadership and what they're looking for to ensure that they have a sense of belonging and a connection to the institutions that they are at.

It was so encouraging to be able to produce work that I never thought I could. Because of the wonderful professors and my incredible cohort, I was able to produce a very thoughtful and impactful piece of work that I can utilize in my day-to-day, but that so many others who are working with Gen. Z students on higher education campuses are able to utilize them as well.

Was the coursework relevant to your work?

Everything that I gained from Spalding University, I was able to immediately implement into the work that I was doing on my own campus. Having this online platform allowed me to have the flexibility to do the things that I needed to do at home and on my home campus, and be able to complete this degree.

How did you connect with students and professors?

I made strong connections with my cohort. We had a GroupMe [chat] where we supported one another and communicated with one another to make sure that none of us got left behind.

The professors in this program are so caring and thoughtful and make an effort to get to know each student individually.

What kind of support did you receive?

I gave birth to my first child in the midst of finishing my capstone at the end of the second class, right before I began my last class in the program to finish my capstone. I gave birth to my son, and my cohort and professors were so intentional about giving me the things that I needed, giving me the time and guidance I needed to ensure that I was able to successfully defend and complete this degree on time.

What impact has the program had on you personally and professionally?

The person that I was coming into this program is not the person that I am today. The things that they taught me and the way that they encouraged me made me a better worker, better researcher, better friend, and better in every professional aspect of my life.

It's because of the things that I've learned that have made me a stronger leader who understands how to lead and why I lead the way that I do. To get all of that from an online program is so incredible and wonderful.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I'm so grateful to Spalding University for all that they do and all that they offer. This program is absolutely sensational. Thank you to everyone who is involved in this program and to my cohort for being so encouraging.

Dr. Jocelyn Wright, Online EdD Graduate & Alabama Resident

Why I Chose Spalding 

Pursuing a degree while balancing a career in graduate education can feel daunting. I needed a program that would sharpen my research and analytical skills—Spalding stood out. Its long history of producing transformative leaders and the military-friendly structure made it a clear choice.

The Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership (EdD) program’s efficiency, which uses less than 24 months of G.I. Bill benefits, sealed the deal. It was an investment in my future that paid off almost immediately.

Community & Support 

One of the things I cherished most about Spalding was the sense of community. My professors and cohort made every step of this journey manageable. Despite my rigorous work schedule, I was able to maintain balance. I never missed a family dinner or a special moment with my children. The program’s flexibility allowed me to prioritize what matters most, without compromising my professional or academic goals.

Rapid Career Growth 

When I graduated with my EdD from Spalding University, I never imagined how quickly my career would accelerate. Within months, I was promoted to serve as the Manpower Branch Chief for the U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence at Ft. Sam Houston, TX.

In this role, I oversee the staffing and workforce strategy for U.S. Army Medical Graduate Education—akin to managing a school district’s educational effectiveness through appropriate teacher-to-student ratios and strategic decision-making that drive organizational success. 

Achieving Success 

Today, with my research accepted for journal publication, I reflect on the incredible foundation Spalding provided me. I fulfilled my parents' dream of higher education while creating a legacy of resilience and achievement for my children. Spalding University didn’t just give me a degree—it became my launchpad to a career I’m proud of and a life filled with purpose. 

If you’re ready to lead, grow and leave your own legacy, Spalding is where your journey should begin.

Dr. Andre L. Tompkins, Online EdD Graduate & Texas Resident