Ed.D. Program Track: Community College Leadership Initiative

Community College Leadership Initiative (CCLI)

Welcome!

This special cohort is designed for those working in the community college sector who are looking to gain advanced knowledge in the field with a special focus on community colleges. The cohort benefits from faculty who focus on community college research; New Jersey community college presidents and other leaders who teach in the program and serve on dissertation committees; access to senior educational and policy leaders within the State; and a growing network of successful and innovative community college leaders who are graduates of the program.

About the Program

CCLI is a track in the Educational Leadership EdD program specifically designed for professionals aiming to excel as leaders in community colleges and beyond. Our program combines academic rigor with practical experience, preparing graduates for the unique challenges of community college leadership, regardless of position.

Why Choose CCLI?

Tailored Curriculum: Our program is crafted to address the specific needs and challenges faced by today’s community college leaders, guided by the American Association for Community College’s Leadership Competencies. The program structure is designed for who are working while undertaking a doctoral degree.

Experienced Faculty: Learn from industry experts, experienced educators, and active researchers who bring real-world insights to the classroom.

Practical Application: Our program builds practitioner scholars by connecting theory and practice with

immediate connections to a student’s professional life.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse cohort of professionals in New Jersey and beyond, building

a valuable network for collaboration, support, and advancement. Beyond the New Jersey community college leaders who teach in our program, our extensive network of alumni of alumni and current students includes: 

• Presidents
• Vice Presidents
• Deans
• Directors
• Advisors
• Faculty
• And others…

CCLI Leadership Institute: The CCLI Leadership Institute adds the hybrid program pillar to provide students with in-person and virtual synchronous leadership experiences that foster inclusive work and learning environments within community colleges.   Specifically, these sessions are opportunities for students to connect and learn from community college presidents and senior leaders as well as engage colleagues in critical issues facing community colleges.  The Institute parallels the coursework topics and is scheduled in advance for the year with approximately one meeting per course.

While the sessions are not mandatory, students are encouraged to take full advantage of the professional development, leadership, research, and networking opportunities presented through the Institute. Students who attend a minimum number of sessions automatically receive a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Community College Leadership.

CCLI Advisory Council

Contact Us

Have questions or need more information? Reach out to our program faculty below:

James Coaxum, Ph.D
Program Coordinator
coaxum@rowan.edu

Monica Reid Kerrigan, Ed.D.
CCLI Liaison
kerriganm@rowan.edu