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Equity Leader: Christopher Morris
Get to Know Dr. Morris
Quick Facts
- Ed.D. Graduation Year: 2013
- Position when you first started the Ed.D. program: Middle School Principal
- Position that you currently hold: Coordinator of College and Career Pathways with the Oakland Unified School district and the K12 Pathways Coordinator for the Peralta Community College District. I am also a member of the board of Directors for California Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, CA-ASCD.
Connect with Dr. Morris
Inspirational Quote
“You don’t make progress standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.”
~ Shirley Chisholm
Interview
How did your doctorate prepare you for this particular career trajectory?
The doctorate prepared me in several ways. First, there are the actual skills and knowledge that you gain from being in the program. Next, the overall experience allowed me to really examine how I can best be the transformational leader that I sought to be in the educational spaces that I believed I could have the greatest impact in. Lastly, earning the doctorate did a tremendous amount in addressing the imposter syndrome that I and many people of color in leadership positions feel.
Transformative Leadership means …
For me, transformative leadership started within. To lead the change necessary in our schools and fully accept the heavy responsibility and duty to include, inspire, and engage my entire community through visionary leadership. To understand people, I had to understand myself and commit to being authentic and at times vulnerable.
Advice for Prospective Ed.D. Students?
My advice to current students is to embrace and acknowledge that you will be changed by the end of the program. And once the degree is conferred, you accept the responsibility to transform the lives and futures of the students and families that you serve. During the process, lean on your cohort family for support and stay connected with family and friends. Remember to seek help if you are struggling and offer to support those around you. I want to congratulate you on making this journey.
Any Thank Yous?
My appreciation for the many faculty that supported me has not waned over the years. My committee members Dr. Su Jin Jez, Dr. Rob Wassmer, Dr. Ted Lascher were and continue to be supporters.
Become a Leader in Education
Are you inspired by Dr. Morris? Ready to advance your career in Education and learn the skills necessary to Champion Change in Educational Leadership and Public Policy?
Without you, change doesn't happen.
If you're ready to make a difference as a school district superintendent, school principal, community college administrator, governmental analyst, community outreach program administrator, or other educational leader—the Sacramento State Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) program can advance you on your path.
To find out if you have what it takes to be a Doctor of Education – a transformational leader who can make change happen in your organization – join us at an information session.