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When Brianna Nargiso-Newton, EdD ’25, began searching for doctoral programs in educational leadership, she wasn't just looking for credentials—she was seeking a program that would align with her core values and equip her with tools to create meaningful change in education. In ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ's Doctorate in Education in Education Policy and Leadership program, she found exactly that: a community committed to dismantling systemic barriers and fostering equity in education.

I chose ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ because its EdD program stood out as one of the few truly practitioner-based programs that explicitly and unapologetically centered antiracism and social justice as core commitments.

Finding a Home for Scholar-Practitioners

For Nargiso-Newton, the decision to attend ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ was aligned with her professional mission. "As someone deeply invested in dismantling systemic barriers in education, I was drawn to a program that recognized the interconnectedness between equity-driven leadership, policy, and systems change," she explains.

ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ's program structure provided more than just theoretical knowledge—it offered practical frameworks that Nargiso-Newton could immediately apply to her work. "The program's structure supported scholar-practitioners like myself in not only understanding the roots of inequity but also in developing the tools and frameworks necessary to lead transformative change in our communities, schools, and broader institutions."

Expanding Horizons Through Global Perspectives

During her time at ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ, Nargiso-Newton found particular value in coursework that challenged her to think beyond national boundaries. Her favorite course, "International Education: Colonial/Neocolonial Impacts and Decolonial Efforts," taught by adjunct professor Dr. Heidi Bloom, proved transformative in expanding her understanding of equity work.

This course profoundly widened my perspective on colonialism and global decolonial efforts, transforming concepts I had once considered abstract into something deeply concrete and recognizable in everyday policy and practice.

She liked that the course’s emphasis was not just on identifying problems, but on imagining new possibilities. "Too often, change-makers are positioned to react to injustice. Professor Bloom empowered us to ideate beyond the reaction—to envision systems, communities, and policies rooted in peace, humanity, and justice. That kind of imagination is not just radical—it's necessary."

Navigating Challenges with Purpose

Nargiso-Newton's doctoral journey wasn't without challenges. She embraced multiple roles—teaching assistant, research assistant, and entrepreneur running her own consulting firm—all while conducting dissertation research and maintaining family commitments.

It was a constant balancing act. But what kept me grounded was the reminder that every obstacle I encountered was one I had once hoped for. Every opportunity was something I had prayed for, and each was deeply connected to my 'why'—my passion, and even more profoundly, my purpose.

This perspective transformed even the most difficult moments into meaningful experiences that contributed to her growth as a scholar-practitioner.

Research Into Real-World Impact

Nargiso-Newton's dissertation research focused on "fostering psychological safety and belonging for Black and Brown students in Title 1 schools through asset-based instructional practices"—work that exemplifies ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ's commitment to research that makes a tangible difference in educational equity.

Her academic work at ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ has directly informed her professional practice and future plans. "After graduation, I plan to continue expanding my consulting firm, One World Consulting Group, where I support school districts, nonprofits, and philanthropic organizations in designing equity-centered strategies that promote systemic change," she says.

My EdD experience has sharpened my ability to bridge policy, practice, and research in ways that center justice, and that will remain the foundation of everything I do moving forward.

Advice for Future Scholar-Practitioners

For those considering following in her footsteps, Nargiso-Newton shares:

My biggest advice is to enter the program with a clear sense of purpose, but also an openness to evolve. This journey will stretch you—not just intellectually, but personally and emotionally—especially as you grapple with issues of identity, equity, and justice in complex systems.

She also highlights the value of authentic engagement with the work. "It's essential to have a deep, actionable commitment to antiracism and equity—not just in theory or language, but in practice. The work requires humility, reflection, and the courage to examine your own positionality."

Community support plays a crucial role in the doctoral journey as well. "Build relationships early with your cohort and faculty—they'll become your most trusted thought partners and sources of support."

A Degree Dedicated to Legacy

As Nargiso-Newton reflects on her achievement, she acknowledges that her success is built on the foundation laid by others—particularly her mother, to whom she dedicates her accomplishment.

This moment is not mine alone—it's one I share with my mother, whose strength, resilience, and unwavering love laid the foundation for everything I've achieved. She was my first teacher, my fiercest advocate, and the quiet force behind every moment I dared to believe in myself. Though she is no longer physically with me, her spirit walks beside me every step of the way—guiding, protecting, and reminding me that I carry her strength in all I do. This degree, this dissertation, and this journey are all reflections of her legacy."

As Dr. Brianna Nargiso-Newton transitioned from doctoral candidate to graduate, she carries forward not only the knowledge and skills gained at ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ but also a deepened commitment to creating more equitable educational opportunities—a testament to both her personal dedication and the transformative impact of ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ's program.

Most importantly, remember that this is not just a degree—it's preparation to support the incredible work that communities are already leading.

Related Links

• by Nargiso-Newton on the truth about Brown v. Board of Education
• To learn more about Nargiso-Newton's consulting work or to connect with her, email her.
• ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ's Doctorate of Education in Educational Policy and Leadership