School of Advanced Studies Featured Alumni

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, 2009

David’s relationship with University of Phoenix dates back to 1995, when he was the first student to graduate from the University’s online campus with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Later, he earned a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems and most recently, a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.

Today, he is a full-time tenured assistant professor at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, Texas. As a faculty member of the college’s Computer Science and Information Technology department, David teaches computer-related courses including networking, information security and digital forensics.

David, the faculty sponsor for the college’s Computer and Technology Club, played a vital role in helping Del Mar College win a prestigious National Science Foundation grant to help students participate in cyber-security lab exercises.

In addition to his duties with Del Mar College, David is also an adjunct faculty member for the University of the Incarnate Word’s Adult Degree Completion Program (ADCAP).

David’s other accomplishments include co-writing a book, presenting at several conferences and being a regular “Ask the Experts” guest on KIII-TV, Corpus Christi’s ABC affiliate.

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership

Could a manager’s style be connected to victimization in the workplace? Dr. Jeff Barry’s doctoral dissertation explores this area of workplace violence and was presented at the Pacific West Human Resources Conference in Palm Springs, California. The findings have the potential to help reduce the outbreak of workplace violence.

Jeff's professional background is diverse—beginning as a radio news reporter for KCLU Radio in Thousand Oaks, California where he won two Radio and Television News Association’s Golden Microphone Awards. He was a Deputy Sheriff with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department.

Most recently, he has worked for the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office as an Investigator working on fraud and narcotics cases. He is the only law enforcement investigator with a doctoral degree, and he credits his degree for making the difference in advancing his career in law enforcement.

Jeff delivered the commencement speech for the 2009 University of Phoenix Online Graduation ceremony at the University of Phoenix stadium. He spoke about the impact to life-long learning and the benefit of a University of Phoenix degree.

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership

Imagine living where running water and learning a trade is a luxury. Dr. Sally Baynton doesn’t have to imagine—she’s witnessed how war and illness have destroyed futures in northern Uganda.

“On my first trip to Uganda in 2007, I noticed that there were many organizations on the ground that were helping the children and orphans. What I also noticed was the dearth of help for the adults … It occurred to me that these people deserved the chance to live prosperous lives, too.”

Sally founded the African Ellipsis Project, for adults aged 15 and older who are uneducated and have nothing. ‘Ellipsis’ is a grammatical symbol that indicates something is missing—Sally’s mission is to fill in what’s missing.

Her 501(c) (3) non-profit provides vocational skill training and education. The students pledge to ‘give back’ by promising to educate others. “Our ‘School of Hope-Gulu’ will be a model that can be replicated anywhere people suffer from poverty because of war, famine or genocide.”

On a recent trip to Uganda, Sally trained participants how to form bike frames. “Teaching … is the greatest gift anyone can give these people who have lived in filth and squalor for decades, and who just want to live humbly and model prosperity for their children. It’s what they deserve. It is what every human being deserves.”

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, 2006

Dr. Stan Boddie was working in information technology and was enrolled in an engineering master’s program when he took the Myers-Briggs personality assessment. He was surprised by the results, which indicated his personality was compatible with that of a university professor. It led him to explore the idea of teaching where he discovered his true passion.

Stan was working full time as an IT program manager for the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. Curious to see if the personality assessment was correct, he applied for an adjunct faculty position at a local university and began teaching.

It didn’t take long for Stan to realize that he had found his true passion and he hasn’t looked back since. He’s been a professor of systems management at the U.S. National Defense University Information Resources Management College (IRM). He was even honored as the 2007 IRM College Faculty of the Year. He earned his doctoral degree and says the program helped him to achieve career success.

“My doctoral experience has been phenomenal. It helped me understand what it means to be a transformational leader. This knowledge plus the confidence I have gained has transcended all aspects of my life.”

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, 2007

Dr. Linda Carl has conducted extensive research on the relationship between factors such as education and the pass-fail rates for NCLEX-RN , the required nationally-standardized test to achieve a registered nurse license. Linda presented her research findings during the 2008 National League for Nursing (NLN) Education Summit and plans to publish them. She was also hired as a consultant by NLN on both the research and test taking teams.

Her study found a contradictory relationship between high math scores and first time NCLEX-RN pass rates. Students with higher English, science, critical thinking and cumulative GPA scores were more likely to pass the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt, whereas leadership scores did not correlate with higher pass-fail rates.

Linda also examined the differences in pass-fail rates and nursing program success rates based on the educational level of the nursing program coordinator or director. Her research suggests that students in programs directed by doctorally-prepared coordinators are more likely to pass the NCLEX-RN and have a significantly lower attrition rate than in programs directed by masters-prepared coordinators.

Linda shares that the practical application of the study findings in nursing schools can be used to evaluate a nursing program and to assess students at risk for failure in order to implement timely, individualized remediation plans. Nursing education policy that adopts the research study findings could increase the pool of nursing students who are qualified to take and pass the NCLEX-RN licensing examination.

Doctor of Health Administration, 2007

Her mission to support registered nurses to become more effective leaders has been a driving force in Dr. Judith Church’s career.

She was the first University of Phoenix Doctor of Health Administration program graduate in 2007; and it didn’t take long for her education to impact her career. In 2009, Judith was appointed to the Ohio Board of Nursing by Governor Ted Strickland. She is one of eight registered nurses on the board and serves with four licensed practical nurses and one consumer. With this appointment, she can continue to make a difference in the nursing profession.

“This is a career dream that’s been fulfilled,” exclaimed Judith.

Seeking a broader perspective, Judith enrolled in the Doctor of Health Administration to learn the business and finance side of nursing. The program openned her eyes to health care operations, where she learned from faculty and learning team members alike.

“We [nurses] have to advance our formal education and certify ourselves within our specialties to maintain the public’s trust in us,” she said.

She is also the administrative director of nursing for the division of professional development with the Kettering Health Network, where she has been employed for more than 25 years.

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, 2007

Roger earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at University of Phoenix to help prepare himself for his future goal of becoming a school superintendent. Roger, an assistant principal in Maryland, says he chose the University’s doctoral program over the doctoral programs at Johns Hopkins University and George Washington University.

While he’d been accepted into both schools, he chose University of Phoenix because he needed a rigorous program that was flexible enough to fit into his demanding schedule and allow him to continue his career as an administrator.

Roger, who currently teaches undergraduate ethics and legal issues online for University of Phoenix, first fell in love with teaching while working as a special education substitute teacher at the encouragement of his sister. Discovering his passion, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies at Norfolk State University and a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Old Dominion University. 

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, 2002

Our nation and our institutions are facing an unprecedented number of complex problems and challenges that can’t be ignored, according to Dr. Mehran Ferdowsian. He shares his beliefs on ethics with business leaders, organizational practitioners and management students in his book “Ethical Solutions: Creating an Ethical and High-Performing Business Community.”

“Conventional solutions have proven to be ineffective and inadequate. Reoccurring financial and ethical crises, ineffective decision-making, poor execution and corporate stagnation illustrates that our nation is rapidly losing its competitive edge, adrift without an ethical compass to guide decision-making and human capital development and management,” Mehran says.

The book is about ethics, the impact of unethical behavior and learning to create an ethical and high-performing business community by systematically embedding ethical values into business operations and organizational governance. It discusses the impact of ethics on performance and teaches how to close the gaps in performance and give every member of the workforce the means and the opportunity to reach his or her full potential.

Mehran is the founder and general manager of Nur Management Solutions, LLC, an organizational consulting firm. He is also the author of “The Making of a Top-Performing Employee in the High Technology Industry” and "Ethical Solutions."

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, 2001

Dr. Kevin Gazzara’s goal is to meet the needs of a new generation of leaders and managers to successfully navigate today’s global economy. One of the ways he transforms lives is as the Senior University Research Chair for Organizational Behavior and faculty member at University of Phoenix. He received his Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership from University of Phoenix in 2001.

His 2009 book, “The Leader of Oz, Revealing the 101 Secrets of Marvelous Leadership for the 21st Century” helps develop leaders who create inspiring and empowered work environments. The foundational elements described in the book are based upon the University of Phoenix Doctor of Management program. The book uses analogies from The Wizard of Oz.

Dr. Henry T. Radda, former vice president of the School of Advanced Studies, calls  “The Leader of Oz” lighthearted, but not lightweight. Radda adds that it's “an engaging self-analytic journey built on research and experience creating the opportunity for better performance as a leader and engaging the mission of the organization.”

Kevin co-wrote the book with Dr. Ali Lakhani, also a University of Phoenix alumni, faculty member and learner. Combined they have 35 years of senior-level work experience for Fortune 100 corporations. Together, they are principals in Magna Leadership Solutions LLC, a consulting firm developing effective organizations and leaders.

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, 2008

A life-long learner and entrepreneur, Dr. Lennox Graham is focused on contributing to people’s lives through preventive health care. A speaker and advocate for health education and awareness, Lennox invented the Blood Pressure Impact Machine in 1996 (patented in 2008). This devise offers a visual representation of the effects of high blood pressure on the body’s blood vessels and is used in hospitals, schools and clinics nationwide.

The machine demonstrates the difference between a healthy blood pressure and the impact of unhealthy pressure on a person’s health. “Most people are unaware that high blood pressure is one of the silent killers in Americans, and the impact that diet and exercise can have on a person’s long term health.”

Lennox is also a presenter for Linvis Enterprises, focusing on self esteem and self empowerment. Previously, he was director of outreach programs for the University of Maryland, Department of Family Management where he managed grants to aid underserved populations receive medical care and increase awareness of health-related topics.

Lennox has also authored many papers for scientific journals and has lectured at Johns Hopkins University.

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, 2007

A long-time leader and entrepreneur, Dr. Jeff Kaplan founded his first business in 1991 with $1,500 and two friends that he couldn’t pay. After his first year of operation, his event management and marketing business had sales just shy of $1 million and a profit of $100,000—impressive for a new business.

From there, the business grew. But, after three years of operation, Jeff found himself $200,000 in debt. That’s when he realized things had to change. He developed a network of experts who would work for a reduced rate, with a promise of more business in the future. After creating solid working relationships and a board of directors who steered him in the right direction, Jeff sold his business 10 years later for nearly a million dollars.

Since then, he has worked in a leadership capacity for a number of firms and has served as Marketing Department Chair for the Graduate School of Business at University of Phoenix. There, he also earned his doctorate from the School of Advanced Studies in organizational leadership.

Currently Jeff directs the Leadership and Development Training practice team for Ferrazzi Greenlight Institute and manages the Greenlight Research Institute. Ferrazzi Greenlight is a strategic relationship management firm.

Doctor of Business Administration, 2007

A refugee from Vietnam’s Communist regime, Than Lam had to start from scratch when he came to the United States.  “When I arrived here, I spoke no English, but I was determined to make my life a success. I had to begin my education all over again, starting with passing the GED.” 

Since then, he has completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from SUNY Maritime College, and an MBA and Masters of Engineering Science in Computer Science from Penn State. After earning three degrees, Than wanted to continue learning. In 2003, he enrolled in the Doctor of Business Administration degree program at University of Phoenix. 

 “I … found the program to be challenging and rewarding. I am a different person today because of [that degree and it has enabled me] to make better contributions to my company.”

Than is a collaborative engineering applications chief architect at Lockheed Maritime Systems and Sensors in New Jersey.  His leadership and technical knowledge are key factors in Lockheed Martin’s successful bid for a recent multi-billion dollar contract. Additionally, Lockheed’s Entrepreneurial Business Competition had 11 ideas accepted, and three were Than’s.

Than also serves as an adjunct faculty member developing and teaching online courses for Green Mountain College in Poultney, Vermont and MBA classes at Rowan University in New Jersey.

Doctor of Business Administration, 2008

How does an IT entrepreneur with a business doctoral degree become involved in the San Jose Jazz Festival, one of the largest jazz events in the United States? The answer is simple—by combining his passions for innovation, entrepreneurship, music and education.

Dr. Geoff Roach was playing the saxophone professionally by the age of 17. However, he knew a career in music was not for him. Instead, Geoff pursued computer science and business. His desire to advance as both a researcher and practitioner drove him to pursue a doctoral degree at University of Phoenix.

After spending more than two decades as an entrepreneur in the software industry, Geoff became actively involved in angel investing. Angel investors are private investors who help early stage companies. He is considered an expert on the topic and even wrote his dissertation on angel investing. Geoff is a member of the Keiretsu Forum, the world’s largest angel investor network, whose members have invested more than $180 million in 200 companies.

He applies his astute business expertise to leading the San Jose Jazz in performances, educational outreach and not to mention one of the finest annual jazz festivals in the United States. Geoff serves as the executive director for the organization.

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership

After 25 years serving our country in the Army Reserves, Joe Stahl earned his Doctor of Management degree at University of Phoenix and is now serving his community by helping others attain a higher education.

Joe recently retired from Bechtel Bettis the naval nuclear research laboratory and views his doctorate as the springboard to a new career in higher education. After graduation, he began teaching online undergraduate Organization Development courses for Geneva College, Industrial Organization for Penn State University and maintains an adjunct faculty position at Duquesne University’s Graduate School of Leadership.

The online teaching positions allow him to enjoy his retirement and “teach from the beach.”

He served three years active service, then 25 years with the reserves as an instructor at Command and General Staff College. By the time Stahl retired, he had earned the rank of Lt. Colonel.

His advice to current doctoral learners is to get a student mentor early in the program, someone who can inspire you.

Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, 2001

Dr. Dave Taschler is a risk and compliance manager for an air products company and has had a successful career in the chemical industry. People questioned why he pursued a doctoral degree so late in his career, but Dave was set on expanding his horizons and knew it wasn’t too late.

After earning his doctoral degree in 2001, he stepped outside his normal sphere of job activity and emerged as a leader, mentor and volunteer. He started as an adjunct professor of engineering at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania, where he also coordinates its internship program. He was recognized by the college for his distinguished service in assisting students in their career exploration.

Dave is also active in a student chapter of Engineers Without Borders, both as an advisor and as a teacher of a sustainability course. He has also worked with the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

His advice to other doctoral learners is to think broadly how the experience can change your life. He says, “A commitment to the [doctoral] program is an investment in your future.”