Get to Know Dr. Herman

Quick Facts

• Ed.D. Graduation Year: 2019
• Position when you first started the Ed.D. program: Education Administrator where I manage the School Health and Safety Office at the California Department of Education.
• Position that you currently hold: Same current position as when I started the program.

Inspirational Quote

“He who understands the why, can bear any how”.

This quote passed on from Victor Frankl, speaks to the need for people to have a “why” if they are to progress and engage in meaningful work. It is through defining our “why” that enables us to bear the difficulties and challenges of our journeys.

Interview

How did your doctorate prepare you for this particular career trajectory?

My doctorate prepared me by helping to see relationships between state and federal education policy and the implementation of such policy at the level of District and School sites. Additionally, I noticed that holding the title of Doctor seems to bring a new level of confidence as well as professional rapport among other educators and researchers.

Transformative Leadership means …

Transformative Leaders work on establishing positive relationships with other leaders and stakeholders. These relationships tap into the human need for connection and purpose, thus inspiring and motivating others to work toward a common purpose. Inherent in such transformative leadership is a focus on equity as a driving force.

Did any faculty really support you?

All of my professors were extremely supportive. In particular, my dissertation chair Dr. Robert Wassmer supported me in a very direct way by assisting me in evaluating the tremendous amount of statistical data I was examining, and by offering continued support throughout the process. Also, Dr. Lisa Romero, assisted me with seeing the relationship between my statistical results and the particular relevance to school climate and academic achievement. I would not have accomplished this without their continued support.

Advice for Prospective Ed.D. Students?

Getting a doctorate is a huge accomplishment, requiring a tremendous amount of work. My advice is to break large tasks into smaller ones at every level, which helps in mitigating feelings of being overwhelmed. Even the smallest amount of progress on a large project is infinitely better than no progress. It’s the stopping of momentum that can make the journey more challenging than it needs to be. Immerse yourself in the work, enjoy the moment, and lean on your loved ones and your cohort for inspiration and motivation.

Any Thank Yous?

I so recommend this program to education professionals who want to extend their knowledge and skills to effect change and continue their life-long journey of learning.

Become a Leader in Education

Are you inspired by Dr. Herman? 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.

Find out more about how to get your Ed.D.