Discoveries in Education: Patty Raube Keller
Discoveries in Education: Patty Raube Keller
Discoveries in Education: Patty Raube Keller
Alum: Ed.D. in Educational Leadership ’11
Current Role: Sports Administration Program Director, Boston College
From the sidelines of college athletics to directing one of the nation’s fastest-growing Sports Administration master’s programs, Patty Raube Keller has made it her mission to transform how students prepare for careers in the sports industry. Drawing inspiration from her Rowan dissertation on the marginalization of women in athletics, Patty built a program at Boston College that blends rigorous academics with hands-on, career-focused preparation. With a 96% job placement rate and a philosophy rooted in mentorship, accessibility, and equity, she is shaping the next generation of leaders in sports.
Innovating in Sports Education
“I have created a unique master’s program in Sports Administration that focuses not only on learning about the sports industry but how to actually get a job in sports,” Patty explains. All courses are taught by industry professionals with terminal degrees, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. The program equips graduates with career acquisition techniques, applied learning, and access to powerful networks—preparing them to succeed across all areas of the sports industry.
The Inspiration Behind the Work
Patty’s Rowan dissertation on the marginalization of women in college athletics revealed systemic gaps in career counseling and access. “When I had the opportunity to lead my own program I made it a priority to be included in the curriculum,” she shares. That insight became the driving force behind her student-centered leadership philosophy.
Impact on Students and the Field
The results speak volumes: 96% of graduates secure jobs within three months of graduation. Alumni are working not just for sports teams and colleges, but across all corners of the industry. Students consistently highlight the program’s balance of rigorous academics and career preparation, noting the importance of internships, networking events, and mentorship. “I tell students all the time that their class is a job interview,” Patty says.
Mentorship and Servant Leadership
Patty’s students often describe her as a mentor and coach—roles she embraces. From guiding uncertain learners into confident professionals to celebrating their successes in the NFL, MLB, or beyond, her approach reflects the servant leadership philosophy she developed at Rowan.
Championing Accessibility in Sports
Equity and access are at the core of Patty’s teaching. As a woman in a male-dominated field and parent to a Native American child adopted from foster care, she views accessibility as both professional and personal. Her program recruits diverse cohorts, connects underrepresented students with mentors, and ensures all perspectives are valued in the classroom.
Rooted in Rowan
Patty credits her time at Rowan with giving her the foundation to lead. “Rowan prepared me not only with technical skills, but with the heart for student-centered leadership that defines my work today,” she reflects. Guided by mentors like Dr. Carol Gruber, Dr. James Coaxum, and Dr. Mary Beth Walpole, Patty carries forward the lessons of rigor, mentorship, and care into every aspect of her teaching and leadership.
👉 Learn more about Patty’s work at Boston College:
At the Rowan University College of Education, we believe discoveries in education take many forms — from bold innovations to everyday acts of impact. This year, we’re spotlighting alumni, faculty, and students who are actively reimagining education, engaging communities, and transforming lives.
Whether you're leading research, launching a side project, mentoring others, improving classroom practices, or advocating for change, we’d love to hear your story. Read other Discoveries.
