When Shawn B. logs on to class after a full day of teaching, he’s not just earning a degree — he’s continuing a legacy. Raised in a family of educators and preachers, he’s driven by the belief that education and faith can change lives.
By day, he’s a Middle School Music Teacher at Success Academy Charter School and serves as an Assistant Music Director at Abundant Life Fellowship Church — roles that reflect both his love of learning and his commitment to community. Now, through the Higher Education track of Rowan University’s online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership, he’s preparing to shape policies, teach future leaders, and strengthen communities through music and mentorship.
What Made Shawn Pursue a Doctorate in Higher Education?
For Shawn, earning a doctorate in higher education is part of a larger calling — to expand his impact as both an educator and creative leader. He envisions a future where he’s teaching at the college level, mentoring the next generation of teacher-leaders, and building programs that make education more inclusive and inspiring.
“Through my doctoral studies in education, I aim to inform policies and work in higher education as a tenured professor.”
That vision extends beyond the classroom. Drawing from his background in music and ministry, Shawn hopes to design equitable music programs, publish research on leadership and community engagement, and strengthen partnerships through his company, Delray Media & Entertainment. His ultimate goal is to use what he’s learning to create access and opportunity for others — especially those who might not otherwise have a seat at the table.
Shawn’s journey reflects the essence of the Higher Education track — preparing scholar-practitioners who lead with purpose, creativity, and a commitment to social impact.
Why Rowan’s Ed.D. in Higher Education?
Built for Working Professionals
Balancing teaching, ministry, and entrepreneurship would be nearly impossible without a program designed for working professionals. When Shawn began exploring doctoral programs, he wanted a university that understood that reality — one that could help him grow as a leader while continuing everything he was already doing.
Flexibility That Makes It Possible
He found that Rowan’s fully online Ed.D. in Higher Education offered exactly what he needed.
“What made me join the program was the fact that it’s affordable, it’s flexible, and it has great leadership. I actually work in Hudson Yards, New York, and I’m able to get all my work done because of the flexibility of the online program. It’s very accessible, and anything can be possible because of that.”
Even with a packed schedule, Shawn is able to log in, participate, and complete his coursework wherever he is.
“Choosing a doctoral program that is offered online has made my life more balanced.”
For Shawn, that flexibility is what makes his degree possible.
A Trusted University with a Lasting Legacy
Reputation is also what drew Shawn to Rowan — a university known for its innovation and momentum. Ranked among the nation’s top 10 fastest-growing public research institutions by The Chronicle of Higher Education, Rowan continues to build on its legacy of educator preparation. Its first doctoral program, launched in 1997, was the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) — the same degree that now helps professionals like Shawn take their leadership to the next level.
That combination of opportunity, leadership, and reputation allows Shawn to keep advancing academically while continuing to lead in every part of his life.
What Surprised Shawn About Rowan’s Online Ed.D. Program?
When Shawn started his studies in Rowan’s online Ed.D. in Higher Education, he expected an engaging, flexible program.
What he didn’t expect — but has come to really appreciate — is how diverse and globally connected the program is, and how much that diversity is shaping his growth as a leader.
“We have students from Africa that are in this program, which really surprised me because I thought it was only people that were in the nation. They’ve introduced me to different perspectives on learning, and it’s been such a great experience to be impacted by people not only in the nation, but internationally.”
A Global Classroom Without Borders
Because the program is fully online, educators from across the country — and around the world — can participate without needing to be near campus. The online format opens doors to a dynamic learning community where diverse voices, ideas, and experiences meet — enriching every conversation and perspective.
It’s a global classroom that turns distance into connection and flexibility into opportunity — allowing educators everywhere to learn together in ways traditional classrooms simply can’t.
Learning alongside peers from different backgrounds has broadened Shawn’s understanding of leadership, access, and inclusion — and given him new ways to approach equity and collaboration in his own school and community.
For Shawn, every discussion feels more meaningful because it brings together educators united by one goal: leading positive change, wherever they are.
“I’m grateful to have this experience at Rowan.”
A Close-Knit Community of Support
That same spirit of connection extends to the program’s close-knit culture.
“The support that comes from faculty and even students is that there is such a community here at Rowan University that we are all collaborating. And whenever I have a question, it’s answered immediately. We work together. We talk together. It feels more like an in-person community, even though it’s online.”
How Shawn Applies His Doctoral Learning in Real Time
What impresses Shawn most about Rowan’s Ed.D. is how relevant and connected the coursework feels, even in the virtual environment. He values that the program’s convenience never compromises quality.
“I’ve found the discussions, resources, and networking opportunities in Rowan’s online program to be just as rich as in-person programs.”
That level of rigor makes it easy for him to see how each lesson applies to his work. As he moves through the program, he constantly thinks about how the ideas and research he’s exploring can strengthen his leadership — both in his classroom and in his community.
“The structure of Rowan’s online Ed.D. program allows me to implement what I learn in real time — applying leadership theories, research methodologies, and policy frameworks directly to my school and ministry settings.”
Every course becomes more than an assignment; it’s an opportunity to practice what he’s learning and see the impact unfold in real life.
Advice for Students Considering an Online Ed.D. in Higher Education
For anyone thinking about earning an online Ed.D. in Higher Education, Shawn’s advice is both practical and encouraging. He emphasizes that success in the program takes focus, organization, and consistency.
“Completing my Ed.D. online requires discipline and strong time management, but it also provides flexibility to balance work and study.”
He adds that staying on top of deadlines is essential — not just for schoolwork, but for life and leadership in general. Meeting commitments, he says, is what allows you to make the most of the program’s flexibility and keep everything in sync.
Earning a doctorate while managing professional and personal responsibilities isn’t easy, but Shawn’s journey proves it’s possible. His message to future students is simple: with dedication and structure, Rowan’s online Ed.D. gives you the support and flexibility to lead, grow, and make a lasting impact.
Earn Your Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Online at Rowan
Through Rowan University’s fully online Ed.D. in Higher Education, you can pursue your purpose and build a legacy that lasts. The program is designed for experienced educators and professionals who want to make a meaningful difference in colleges, universities, and postsecondary systems — without putting their lives or careers on hold.
As a student, you’ll learn alongside a diverse, driven community of scholar-practitioners. Together, you’ll explore topics like higher education policy and governance, leadership and student success, equity and institutional reform, and research-driven decision-making — all while applying what you learn directly to your current role.
The 100% online format gives you the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere, with the same level of rigor, connection, and support you’d expect from a leading public research university. Rowan’s faculty bring real-world expertise to every course, helping you translate theory into practice and ideas into lasting change.
If you’re ready to advance your career, inspire others, and lead with purpose, Rowan’s online Ed.D. in Higher Education gives you everything you need to take the next step — on your terms.
Related Blogs on Ed.D. Programs and Higher Education Leadership
Still exploring whether an online Ed.D. in Higher Education is right for you? Check out these related resources: