Students, staff and faculty members from Penn State's College of Education share recent research and career achievements.
- Soo-yong Byun, professor of education, demography, and Asian studies, presented “On Methods: Comparisons in Practice,” as part of the Comparative Education and International Development Community’s Comparative Analysis Lecture Series.
- Sean Hembrick, a doctoral candidate in the Higher Education program, has authored a forthcoming book chapter titled "The Neglected Scholar: Being Black, First-Generation, and Doctoral Student." The chapter will appear in the new volume titled "Black Doctoral Students' Experiences in Academia: Narratives of Collective Responsibility, Community, and Care" (Routledge). In addition to his scholarship, Hembrick will be recognized at the 2026 ACPA Convention in Baltimore as the recipient of the 2026 Kimberly Harden Champion of Justice Award. This honor, awarded by the ACPA Commission for Social Justice Education, recognizes exemplary social justice contributions by a graduate student. While in Baltimore, Hembrick will also be presenting his research at both the ACPA Convention and the American Association for Blacks in Higher Education Conference.
- Leah Hollis, associate dean for access, equity, and inclusion, and professor of education policy studies, co-edited a new book, “Disrupt the ‘Not-Telling’: Gatekeeping Issues on the Way to Tenure and Promotion for Black Women at HBCUs, MSIs, and PWIs,” published by Oxford University Press.
- Alayna Kilic, events specialist in the Penn State College of Education, was recognized in Penn State’s latest “We Are” feature for exemplifying the spirit of “We Are.” Celebrated as a dedicated and personable team player, Kilic’s contributions — from planning standout events to supporting colleagues — help strengthen and enrich the college community.
- Michael Posey, an advanced doctoral student in Penn State’s World Campus Doctor of Education program, has published a piece, “Educating for Cognitive Resilience: Active Learning, Wargaming, and the Information Professionals Association” for the Information Professionals Association’s website. Advised by Joseph Polizzi, associate teaching professor and director of the World Campus Online Doctor of Education Program, the work highlights how professionals can be better prepared to make sound, high-stakes decisions — offering insights that extend beyond military contexts to a broad range of learning environments.
- Penn State College of Education faculty members Priya Sharma and Leah Hollis were recognized for their contributions in the University’s 2026 Teach-a-thon, hosted by the Center for Socially Responsible AI. Sharma earned second place, while Hollis received honorable mention for advancing thoughtful, responsible uses of generative AI in teaching and learning.
"College of Education News" highlights accomplishments by faculty, staff and students in the College of Education, including publications; research presentations at conferences and workshops; and awards and fellowships. Please share your news with us and your colleagues by emailing edrelations@psu.edu