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
Creating Beloved Communities in the Schoolhouse with Terri N. Watson, Ph.D.
Date | Time: Tuesday, November 18 (6-7 EST) (VIRTUAL)
In her lecture, "Creating Beloved Communities in the Schoolhouse," Dr. Watson will build on her influential 2024 article, “A framework for Black feminist school leadership.” She will explore community-centered leadership practices and frameworks often overlooked in educational leadership literature and will introduce her framework for school leadership that centers on just and community-centered leadership practices. Drawing on over 30 years of experience as a teacher, school administrator, and professor of educational leadership, Dr. Watson will share “what I know for sure” about how educators can create and sustain beloved communities within our schools—communities where all children, particularly those historically marginalized, are seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Terri N. Watson, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at The City College of New York and member of the Urban Education faculty at The City University of New York’s Graduate Center.
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.