About the Distinguished Leadership Virtual Lecture Series
Join the Department of Educational Leadership at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Education for the inaugural Distinguished Leadership Lecture Series.
Designed to foster meaningful dialogue and bridge the gap between universities and their communities, this monthly series — held during the fall and spring semesters — brings together renowned leaders in education, leadership, and policy.
Through thought-provoking discussions, the series creates a collaborative space where academics and practitioners unite to explore leadership challenges, share innovative solutions, and advance the well-being of the communities we serve.
Completely free and accessible online, the Distinguished Leadership Lecture Series welcomes all — students, alumni, faculty, and community leaders.
Join us to connect with like-minded individuals, engage with transformative ideas, and co-create solutions to redefine how we live, learn, and lead.
Upcoming Speakers
Leading the Future: Critical Perspectives on AI in Education for Educational Leaders
Date | Time: Tuesday, September 30 (6-7 EST) (VIRTUAL)
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into the operations and instructional practices of K–12 education, school leaders face pressing questions about equity, ethics, and innovation. This panel — Leading the Future: Critical Perspectives on AI in Education for Educational Leaders — will feature educators, school system leaders, school board members, researchers, and policy experts who will examine how schools can critically and responsibly engage with AI tools. The discussion will explore how to protect student data, mitigate algorithmic bias, and uphold academic integrity. Rather than embracing a tech-first approach, this session will highlight human-centered, justice-oriented leadership that prioritizes student well-being and public trust. Attendees will gain practical insights into emerging AI applications and walk away with leadership frameworks and guiding questions for navigating the evolving intersection of technology and learning.
Meet the Panelists
Jennifer Laski is the Academic Technology Officer at National Defense University, where she advises leadership on academic technology policy and guides the adaptation of emerging educational technologies. Her career is rooted in librarianship, with experience in instruction and user experience, at traditional, military, and for-profit higher education settings. She is currently a Doctor of Education in Leadership candidate at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Chris Lehmann is the founding principal and CEO of Science Leadership Academy Schools, a network of progressive public schools in Philadelphia, PA considered to be pioneers of the School 2.0 movement. Chris is the co-founder of Inquiry Schools which is dedicated to helping schools become more empowering, modern learning spaces. Chris has won the McGraw Prize in Education and has been named Outstanding Leader of the Year by the International Society of Technology in Education. Chris is co-author of Building School 2.0: How to Create the Schools We Need with Zac Chase and father to Jakob and Theo.
Jim Masters, Ph.D., is a highly skilled educator and Superintendent of Henry County Public Schools, recognized as one of the top 10 districts to work in. With 28 years in education and a proven track record of turning around two schools and a district in culture and academics, he is passionate about integrating AI into education to reduce staff workload and elevate learning. He also leads the inaugural AI for Kentucky Educators conference, has been featured in numerous webinars and District Administration Magazine and provides professional learning experiences for teachers across the state of Kentucky.
Video and Media Library
Arizona State President Michael M. Crow to give inaugural educational leadership talk
VCU News Article, February 14, 2025
About the Department of Educational Leadership
At the heart of Richmond and extending far beyond, our VCU School of Education Department of Educational Leadership (EDLP) is shaping the future of education and leadership across diverse fields. With more than 320 alumni leading K-12 schools and 259 others driving change in higher education, EDLP’s impact is felt across communities in Virginia and nationwide.
Whether transforming classrooms locally or championing innovation at universities nationwide, these graduates – 167 of whom are VCU employees – are committed to making a lasting impact.