Saint Francis University Celebrates First Executive EdD Program Graduates
Transforming Leadership: Saint Francis University Celebrates First Graduates of Executive Ed.D. Program
Front Row (Left to Right): Dr. Pamela J. Sprigler, Dr. Anthony J. DeRubis, Dr. Genaro “Chip” J. Iglesias, Dr. Sherri L. Fredlock, Dr. Hannah M. Harley, Dr. Jo-Ann A. Semko, Dr. Sherri L. Link; Center: Dr. Tammi L. Micelli; Back Row (Left to Right): Dr. Joseph R. Coray, Dr. Nicole L. Itle, Dr. William Allen Aurandt, Dr. Douglas A. Fleegle, Dr. Allison M. Ritchey, Dr. Brandi L. Penatzer, Dr. Justin D. Skipper, Dr. Mark J. DeRubeis
Loretto, PA — May 2025 — In an era that calls for bold and compassionate leadership, Saint Francis University proudly announces the graduation of the Francis 2022 Founding Cohort—the inaugural class of its Executive Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership and Innovation. The cohort celebrated this milestone during the University’s commencement ceremony on May 11, 2025. Launched in Fall 2022, the program is designed to prepare mission-driven leaders ready to drive change in today’s complex and rapidly evolving world.
Rooted in the University’s Franciscan values, the Executive Ed.D. program emphasizes servant leadership, cross-disciplinary learning, and a scholar-practitioner approach. It equips leaders with the knowledge, mindset, and skills to foster innovation while staying grounded in ethical service and community impact.
“The Executive Ed.D. was born from a commitment to develop leaders who combine bold innovation with servant-hearted leadership,” said Dr. Tricia McFadden, Director of the Executive Ed.D. Program. “Watching the Francis 2022 Cohort grow into scholar-practitioners who lead with courage, compassion, and wisdom has been a privilege.”
A Leadership Model Built on Service
Central to the program is its commitment to servant leadership — cultivating leaders who prioritize empathy, empowerment, and collaboration. Through academic study and reflective practice, students examine how servant leadership creates sustainable innovation, inclusive cultures, and positive societal impact.
Faculty serve not just as educators but as mentors and role models, demonstrating the values they teach and guiding students through a transformative learning experience.
Bridging Theory and Practice
The Executive Ed.D. follows a scholar-practitioner model, integrating rigorous academic research with real-world leadership challenges. Students engage in hands-on coursework and complete original dissertation research aligned with their professional goals and organizational needs.
“The program challenged me to think beyond traditional boundaries,” said Genaro Iglesias, City Manager of South Miami, FL. “The hybrid format and the cross-sector learning experience allowed me to grow alongside a diverse group of accomplished professionals, expanding my perspective on leadership and innovation.”
A Cross-Disciplinary Approach for a Complex World
Drawing from fields such as business, education, healthcare, technology, and nonprofit leadership, the program offers a rich, cross-disciplinary curriculum. Students explore leadership through multiple lenses, developing the adaptability and systems thinking required in today’s interconnected global landscape.
Career Transformation and Community Impact
Graduates of the Executive Ed.D. program are charting diverse and influential career paths — from C-suite leadership and educational administration to consulting, entrepreneurship, and public service. Each carries forward a shared mission: to lead ethically, innovate boldly, and serve with purpose.
Real-World Research with Lasting Results
The culminating dissertation projects reflect the program’s deep commitment to practical impact. Topics explored by the Francis 2022 Cohort include organizational culture change, educational innovation, employee engagement, and leading through disruption. These research initiatives are already being implemented to drive measurable change across industries and communities.
“The relationships I formed and the insights I gained through this program have transformed the way I lead,” said William A. Aurandt, Principal of Westmont Hilltop High School. “It was an innovative experience unlike anything I had encountered before in education.”
A Milestone Moment for Saint Francis University
“As members of the Francis 2022 Cohort walk across the commencement stage, they celebrate more than an academic milestone—they begin a new chapter of purpose-driven leadership shaped by the mission of Saint Francis University.”
“This founding cohort has set the bar high,” said Dr. McFadden. “They lead with heart, innovate with purpose, and embody what it means to be servant leaders in a time when the world truly needs them.”
Applications Now Open for Fall 2025
Saint Francis University is now accepting applications for the Fall 2025 cohort of the Executive Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership and Innovation. To learn more, visit www.francis.edu/EdD or contact Dr. Tricia McFadden at tmcfadden@francis.edu.