Meet Our Doctoral Students
Educational Background
Master of Education, Adult Learning & Leadership, Teachers College, 2013.
Master of Arts, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, New York University, 2011.
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Minot State University, 2009.
Last Updated: Sep 30, 2024
Myra Gupta (She/Her/Hers)
Ed.D. Student, Adult Ed Guided Intensive Study (AEGIS)
My research examines how leaders from diverse backgrounds navigate and transform institutional spaces while maintaining an authentic leadership style. As both practitioner and researcher, I combine academic inquiry with real-world application, grounded in the belief that effective leadership development must actively challenge systemic inequities and existing power structures to create lasting social impact.
Research Discipline/Bio
I am a leadership designer, coach, and facilitator with over a decade of experience in non-profits. In my work, I design transformative programs that center historically marginalized voices and challenge conventional power structures. As a doctoral student in the AEGIS Program at Teachers College, Columbia University, I research nontraditional leadership paradigms and their intersection with movements for social change.
My research examines how leaders from diverse backgrounds navigate and transform institutional spaces while maintaining an authentic leadership style. As both practitioner and researcher, I combine academic inquiry with real-world application, grounded in the belief that effective leadership development must actively challenge systemic inequities and existing power structures to create lasting social impact.
Educational Background
Master of Arts in Teaching, Relay Graduate School of Education, 2014
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, with a Certificate in Global Health & Health Policy, Princeton University, 2012
Last Updated: Nov 4, 2024
Amy Hawley Alvarez (She/Her/Hers)
Ph.D. Student, Higher and Postsecondary Education
Research Discipline/Bio
Amy’s career in education spans nearly 30 years. From being an ESL/EFL teacher to an editor for English language teaching materials at two university presses to leading the programming for TC’s university-assisted community school (Teachers College Community School)—Amy works collaboratively on teams focused on improving education for all. Currently the Director of Strategic Partnerships, Office of the President at TC, Amy works on special projects, including the Medal for Distinguished Service, Columbia Community Service, TCCS, and the Zankel and Milman Fellowships. Amy is also a part-time instructor in the Higher & Postsecondary Education Program at TC. Amy’s primary research interest is the civic mission of higher education institutions and how it impacts the communities where higher education institutions are located. She hopes to utilize the civic mission of higher education to research the factors that help or hinder academic persistence for housing-insecure college students.
Educational Background
B.A., Music and French, University of Northern Iowa, 1995
M.A., TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), University of Northern Iowa, 1996
M.A., Higher & Postsecondary Education, Teachers College, 2020
Ed.M., Higher & Postsecondary Education, Teachers College, 2023
Last Updated: Sep 30, 2024
Annie Huynh
Ed.D. Student, Urban Education Leaders Program (UELP)
Annie received her B.A. in Anthropology and Chinese Language and Literature from George Washington University and received her M.Ed. in Elementary Education from Temple University and a K-12 administrative certificate from the University of Scranton. As a daughter of refugees, she is committed to diversity and quality education for students, and enjoys spending time with her two young boys exploring the city.
Research Discipline/Bio
Annie Huynh is an educational consultant and former school leader with over 17 years to creating high-achieving learning environments in urban schools. She started her career as an elementary teacher teaching abroad and in Philadelphia. Dedicated to teacher leadership, Annie served on the Philadelphia Mayor’s Teacher Advisory Council in 2013 and was nationally selected as an ASCD Emerging Leader in 2014. She transitioned to a school leader in multiple charter schools in New York City including, the Bronx, Washington Heights, and Harlem.
Annie received her B.A. in Anthropology and Chinese Language and Literature from George Washington University and received her M.Ed. in Elementary Education from Temple University and a K-12 administrative certificate from the University of Scranton. As a daughter of refugees, she is committed to diversity and quality education for students, and enjoys spending time with her two young boys exploring the city.
Educational Background
Administrative Certification (PK-12), University of Scranton
Master of Education, Elementary Education, Temple University
Bachelor of Arts, Anthropology/Chinese Language and Literature
Publications/Exhibitions
Huynh, A. (2013). Courageous conversations about race: Exploring counter-narratives on Black Heritage Day. Schools:
Studies in Education, 10(2), 260–277. https://doi.org/10.1086/673334
Last Updated: Jul 14, 2025
Francheska Jimenez (She/Her/Hers)
Ph.D. Student, Higher and Postsecondary Education
Contact Information:
Research Discipline/Bio
Francheska is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher & Postsecondary Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. Her research interests include intersectional identity development and social/cultural capital of Queer students of color, sense of belonging, access for minoritized students, and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). Additionally, she is a Doctoral Research Fellow for Teacher's College Center for Technology & School Change working on the Center's WELCOME Project, focusing on the qualitative research aspects of the evaluation. Francheska also has a M.A. in Higher Education Administration and B.A. in English from Stony Brook University. She has a culmination of professional experience at New York University, Columbia University, K-12 schools in Harlem, and non-profit organizations.
Educational Background
Master of Arts, Higher Education Administration, Stony Brook University, 2019
Publications/Exhibitions
Navigating Identity: Queer Cultural Capital and the Experiences of Black LGBTQ College Students. (accepted for 2024, June). Association for the Study of Higher Education 2024 Annual Conference, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
Last Updated: Sep 30, 2024
Regina Johnson
Ed.D. Student, Adult Ed Guided Intensive Study (AEGIS)
Regina’s research explores how adult education, organizational change, policy innovations, and narrative amplification empower entrepreneurs. She examines how intersectional identities, self-efficacy, and resilience contribute to success, and how access to resources—information, capital, and networks—and storytelling support sustainable growth. Drawing on cross-cultural insights from the U.S. and Ghana, she centers participant realities in her work, fostering transformative leadership that honors diverse lived experiences.
Contact Information:
Research Discipline/Bio
Regina Johnson is a strategic business leader and Ed.D. candidate in Adult Learning and Leadership at Teachers College, Columbia University (AEGIS XXIX cohort). Her career spans economic development, workforce development, and consulting. In her current role at Microsoft, she serves as Community Lead for small businesses and Director of the Black Partner Growth Initiative, driving entrepreneurial growth within the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program.
Regina’s research explores how adult education, organizational change, policy innovations, and narrative amplification empower entrepreneurs. She examines how intersectional identities, self-efficacy, and resilience contribute to success, and how access to resources—information, capital, and networks—and storytelling support sustainable growth. Drawing on cross-cultural insights from the U.S. and Ghana, she centers participant realities in her work, fostering transformative leadership that honors diverse lived experiences.
Educational Background
- Executive Certificate, Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Business Strategy, MIT Sloan School of Management, 2023
- Master of Policy Management, Georgetown University, 2020
- Master of Science, Administration, Central Michigan University, 2013
- Bachelor of Arts, Journalism and Public Relations, Georgia State University, 2009
Last Updated: Nov 3, 2024
Chalisa Kaewla
Ed.D. Student, Adult Learning and Leadership
Research Discipline/Bio
Doctoral candidate in Adult Learning and Leadership at Teachers College, Columbia University, and Co-President of the Doctoral Student Association. My primary research explores how cultural influences shape individual change, adult development, and transformative learning, with a special focus on Designing Your Life (DYL) methodologies. I have expertise in leadership, creative learning workshops, and qualitative research, as well as supporting courses in action learning and advanced adult learning theory as a graduate assistant. An art enthusiast, I enjoy pottery, printmaking, and photography, which complement my global perspective and foster creativity and adaptability in my studies and work with students.
Educational Background
Master of Education, Learning Design, Innovation, and Technology, Harvard Graduate School of Education, 2022.
Publications/Exhibitions
Kaewla, C. (2024). Bridging transformative learning in programs to livelihood by designing your life. In L. Fabbri, M. Fedeli, P. Faller, D. Holt, & A. Romano (Eds.), Proceedings of the XV Biennial International Transformative Learning Conference (p. 432). Teachers College, Columbia University.
Last Updated: Nov 3, 2024
YooNa Kim (She/Her/Hers)
Ed.D. Student, Adult Ed Guided Intensive Study (AEGIS)
Research Discipline/Bio
YooNa Kim is an international educator and mental health advocate with over 15 years of experience across Korea, China, Kenya, India, Canada, and the US. As Director of Wellbeing at citiesRISE,Bransksome Hall Asia, she estabilished team development, implements school-based programs, and conducts research on human flourishing. YooNa’s career spans schools, NGOs, research institutes, and digital mental health startups, where she bridges research and practice to create healthier, more resilient communities and organizations. Her research explores the intersection of mental health and education, emphasizing mental health as a continuum, culturally sensitive practices, and culture building. Previously, as a co founding member of Bransksome Hall Asia, she estabilished holistic wellbeing curriculum, and has worked with Manhattan Hunter High School, the International Rescue Committee, and Columbia University's Global Mental Health Lab.
Educational Background
-Master’s in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Global Mental Health & Trauma, and Spirituality, Mind, and Body (Social-Emotional Learning), Teachers College, Columbia University, 2020.
-Bachelor’s in Psychology with a Minor in International Relations and Law, Ewha Womans University, 2011. Completed curriculum for the teaching profession as a school counselor.
Honors/Awards
-Fellowship, Transformative Educational Leadership, 2024-2025
-Distinction in Research and Creative Work Award for Master’s Thesis: "Social-Emotional Learning Art-Based Psychosocial Curriculum Using Contemplative Practices: Map of My Soul, 2020
Last Updated: Nov 3, 2024
Jamie Lerner-Brecher (She/Her/Hers)
Ph.D. Student, Higher and Postsecondary Education
Research Discipline/Bio
Jamie is a first-year doctoral student in the Higher and Postsecondary Education program. Her research looks at retention and graduation outcomes for multiply-marginalized disabled college students.
Educational Background
MA, Disability Studies, CUNY School of Professional Studies, 2022
BA, American Studies, Columbia University, 2019
Honors/Awards
BA, summa cum laude, Columbia University, 2019
Last Updated: Oct 3, 2025
Savanna Lyons
Ed.D. Student, Adult Ed Guided Intensive Study (AEGIS)
Dissertation Advisor: Amra Sabic-El-Rayess
Contact Information:
Research Discipline/Bio
Savanna Lyons is a doctoral candidate in Adult Learning and Leadership. Savanna’s doctoral research focuses on how people learn to build trust across differences in order to take action towards shared civic and political goals. Her previous research has explored various aspects of cooperation and collective action, including the management of cooperative enterprises, farmer cooperation in sustainable food systems, and the relationship between adult learning and civic engagement. As a scholar-practitioner, Savanna has led nonprofit organizations focused on civic engagement, community development and grassroots political advocacy for over 15 years, working primarily in Appalachia. She also coaches and consults for leaders on the frontlines of social change. Currently she co-manages the U.S. trade association for worker-owned cooperatives, which leads local, state and national grassroots policy advocacy to support employee ownership and economic democracy.
Educational Background
M.S., Economics and Sustainable Agriculture, Iowa State University, 2016
B.A., Environmental Science and Public Policy, Harvard University, 2006
Honors/Awards
● TC Changemaker Award, Teachers College, Columbia University, 2025
● Institute for Civically Engaged Research Fellow, American Political Science Association, 2025
● “Resilient and Vibrant Rural Communities in Japan and the U.S.” exchange mission, The Japan Society, 2018
● First Place, Extension Competition, Applied and Agricultural Economics Association, 2016
● Barbara and Thomas Lyon Scholarship for the Study of Agricultural Cooperatives, Iowa State University, 2016
Last Updated: Jun 2, 2025
Leo Marin (He/Him/His)
Ph.D. Student, Social-Organizational Psychology
Leo is the co-founder of a non-profit, Beneath the Service, that focuses on the psychological adjustment and reintegration of military veterans. He also runs The Leadership Supply Company, a consulting shop that specializes in OD interventions and leadership development curriculum.
Research Discipline/Bio
Leos primary research focus is related to how social identity influences employee engagement during times of major change, how individuals can successfully manage disruptions in identity brought about by transition, and how the state of psychological transition impacts organizational change efforts and leadership practices. He is also keen on further investigating the impact that leadership development programs have on leadership self-identity, motivation to lead, and self-efficacy.
Leo is the co-founder of a non-profit, Beneath the Service, that focuses on the psychological adjustment and reintegration of military veterans. He also runs The Leadership Supply Company, a consulting shop that specializes in OD interventions and leadership development curriculum.
Educational Background
Master of Arts, Organizational Psychology, Teachers College
Bachelors of Science, Foreign Area Studies, United States Military Academy at West Point
Last Updated: Jun 3, 2025
Katrina Monton
Ph.D. Student, Social-Organizational Psychology
Research Discipline/Bio
Katrina is currently a doctoral candidate in the Social-Organizational Psychology program at Columbia University. As a PhD candidate, Katrina conducts mixed-method research focusing on the impact of organizational culture in high-performance environments. She often works at the intersection of organizational psychology and sport, but has worked within the medical and military fields as well. Her research has been presented nationally and internationally, including at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. Prior to pursuing graduate studies, she was a professional athlete on the Canadian Women’s National Water Polo team, assisting Canada in reaching the podium at six major international events, including World Championships, Pan American Games, Commonwealth Games and World League. Following her retirement from team Canada, she completed a MA in Counselling Psychology at McGill University and worked as a clinical counsellor in her hometown, Montreal, Canada.
Educational Background
- Master of Arts, Social-Organizational Psychology, TC, Columbia University, 2021
- Master of Arts, Counselling Psychology, McGill University, 2019
- Bachelor of Arts, Major Sociology, Minor Psychology, Concordia University, 2017
Honors/Awards
- Blackman and Dinnerstein Scholarship Award, TC, Columbia University, 2023 - 2025
- Provost Grant for Conference Presentations and Professional Development, TC, Columbia University, 2023
- John F. Lemieux Young Alumni Medal, Concordia University, 2023
- Joan Nelson Study Abroad Scholarship Recipient, Golden Key Honour Society, 2019
- Wilfrid- Éthier Merit Award, Order of Counsellors of Quebec, 2018
Publications/Exhibitions
Monton, K., Broomes, A. M., Brassard, S., & Hewlin, P. (2022). The Role of Sport-Life Balance and Well-Being on Athletic Performance. Canadian Journal of Career Development, 21(1), 101-10.https://cjcdrcdc.ceric.ca/index.php/cjcd/article/view/330/374
Last Updated: Feb 10, 2025
Prachi Pathak
Ph.D. Student, Social-Organizational Psychology
Research Areas: Motivation, Decision Science, Cross-Cultural Psychology
Research Discipline/Bio
PhD Student in Social-Organizational Psychology, Department of Organization and Leadership. Research Fellow at Nike, Inc.
Research Areas: Motivation, Decision Science, Cross-Cultural Psychology
Educational Background
Master of Science, Experimental Psychology and Data Analytics, Seton Hall University, 2022
Bachelor of Science, Biology, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, 2020
Publications/Exhibitions
Pathak, P., Jia, F. Exploring the influence of human values on perceptions of immigration: an experimental approach. Discov Psychol 4, 50 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44202-024-00166-x
Last Updated: Feb 28, 2025
Loretta Pearce
Ed.D. Student, Adult Learning and Leadership
Most recently I was the Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO) at an Am Law 100 global law firm.
Prior to the CDEIO role I was at Meta (formerly Facebook) where I was the DE&I Global Talent Management Programs Leader. At Meta, I established and supported programming that advanced the careers of underrepresented employees and embedded DE&I in the culture.
I began my career in academia and subsequently moved on to leadership roles in learning and development. My thought leadership in the DE&I space became a formal part of my role at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond in Virginia.
In a career that spans over 30 years, I have always been a passionate advocate for people. All should have the opportunity to work in inclusive spaces where they flourish, offer their best and therefore drive organizational success.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/loretta-lisa-dowdy-pearce/
Research Discipline/Bio
My dissertation research focuses on my transformational journey in life and leadership.
Most recently I was the Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO) at an Am Law 100 global law firm.
Prior to the CDEIO role I was at Meta (formerly Facebook) where I was the DE&I Global Talent Management Programs Leader. At Meta, I established and supported programming that advanced the careers of underrepresented employees and embedded DE&I in the culture.
I began my career in academia and subsequently moved on to leadership roles in learning and development. My thought leadership in the DE&I space became a formal part of my role at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond in Virginia.
In a career that spans over 30 years, I have always been a passionate advocate for people. All should have the opportunity to work in inclusive spaces where they flourish, offer their best and therefore drive organizational success.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/loretta-lisa-dowdy-pearce/
Educational Background
EdD, Adult Learning and Leadership, Teachers College, 2025
Certificate in Womanist Leadership Studies, Katie Geneva Cannon Center for Womanist Leadership & Union Presbyterian Seminary, 2025
Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion, Cornell University
MDiv., Theology, Transformative Theology, Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, Virginia Union University
MA, English, Transformation in Literature, Virginia State University
BA, Anthropology and African American Studies, University of Virginia
Last Updated: Jul 19, 2025
Nady Persons (She/They)
Ed.D. Student, Adult Ed Guided Intensive Study (AEGIS)
Research Discipline/Bio
Nady Persons (they/she) is an executive coach, designer, and facilitator of adult learning experiences. They focus on empowering individuals and organizations to embrace inclusivity and liberatory practices through engaging learning experiences and leadership development. Their research focus is centered on the nexus between critical theory and transformative learning and how to create lasting, inclusive change in our complex workplace environments.
Educational Background
Master of Arts, Adult Learning and Leadership, Teachers College, 2024
Bachelor of Arts, English and German, University of South Dakota, 2002
Last Updated: Nov 3, 2024
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