Jax State’s Doctor of Education Program Joins Prestigious National CPED Network

06/25/2026

Jacksonville State University’s Doctor of Education (EdD) program has been accepted into the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED), a nationally recognized consortium of more than 160 colleges and schools of education committed to strengthening and advancing doctoral education through collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. 

The invitation places Jax State among a select group of institutions dedicated to preparing educational leaders through scholarly practice and real-world problem solving. Jax State was one of just 18 institutions nationwide invited to join CPED's newest membership cohort. CPED members work together to examine and improve the Doctor of Education degree, sharing research, best practices, and innovative approaches to leadership preparation. 

"Joining CPED affirms the important work our faculty have undertaken to strengthen and reimagine the Doctor of Education program," said Dr. Kimberly Gaiters-White, Dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies. "This achievement reflects a shared commitment to preparing educational leaders who can think critically, solve complex problems, and create meaningful change in their schools, organizations, and communities.  

“I am especially grateful to Dr. Brandon Gilliland, Dr. Nilufer Guler, and the members of the EdD Task Force, whose dedication and collaborative work helped position our program for this recognition. We are proud to join a national network of institutions dedicated to advancing excellence in doctoral education." 

Along with Dr. Gilliland and Dr. Guler, the EdD Task Force included Dr. Tammie Brown, Dr. Christi Trucks, Dr. Russell Hammack, Dr. Justin Parker, Dr. Linda Mitchell, Dr. Torsten Dryden, Dr. Teresa Gardner, Dr. Cynthia Connor, Dr. Aimee Weathers, Dr. Cytique Davis, Dr. Christie Calhoun, and Dr. Barbie Norvell. 

Acceptance into CPED follows a year of strategic work by Jax State faculty to strengthen and reimagine the university’s EdD program. Led by Dr. Brandon Gilliland and supported by Dr. Nilufer Guler, faculty members completed a comprehensive application process that highlighted the program’s commitment to preparing educational leaders who can address complex challenges facing schools, communities, and organizations. 

The achievement also reflects the work of the EdD Task Force, a faculty-led group charged with reviewing and restructuring the program. Task force members spent the past year examining curriculum, program design, and student outcomes to ensure the degree aligns with national best practices and the evolving needs of educational leaders. 

CPED’s mission is to transform the preparation of educational professionals through scholarly practice, helping leaders create meaningful and lasting change in their organizations and communities. Membership provides opportunities for faculty collaboration, professional development, research partnerships, and participation in national conversations about the future of doctoral education. 

For Jax State students, the designation reinforces the university’s commitment to delivering a high-quality doctoral experience grounded in leadership, inquiry, and practical application. 

"CPED membership recognizes the quality and vision of our EdD program and the faculty who have worked diligently to elevate it. As higher education and the educational landscape continue to evolve, it is essential that we prepare leaders who can adapt, innovate, and lead with purpose,” said Dr. Christie Shelton, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “This opportunity connects Jax State to a distinguished community of scholars and practitioners while further strengthening our ability to serve students and educational partners across Alabama and beyond." 

The Doctor of Education program is housed within Jax State’s College of Education and Professional Studies, which prepares educators, administrators, counselors, and other professionals to serve communities throughout Alabama and beyond.