The Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Law (ELPL) at Alabama State University recently hosted its 2025 Dissertation Boot Camp and Research Symposium, welcoming 37 doctoral candidates from across the United States, including Alabama, South Carolina, Texas, New York, and Delaware. This immersive weekend was designed to foster academic development and scholarly mentorship within a collaborative and supportive environment.
The event commenced with inspiring remarks from Dr. Nicole Strange-Martin, dean of the College of Education, followed by a compelling keynote address delivered by Dr. Anthony Broughton, Acting ELPL Program Coordinator. A fireside chat hosted by Dr. Kevin Rolle, Chief of Staff, provided students with valuable real-world insights into leadership and perseverance throughout doctoral studies.
“As Associate Dean and Acting ELPL Coordinator, I remain committed to advancing high-impact initiatives that enhance student success and elevate the University’s role in shaping the future of educational leaders,” said Broughton.
The symposium featured renowned scholars Dr. Rema Reynolds Vassar and Dr. Derek Anthony Houston, who offered targeted research mentoring to assist students in refining their dissertation work. Also in attendance were undergraduate education majors from the University of South Carolina, exploring graduate opportunities and strengthening pathways to advanced educational leadership preparation at Alabama State University.
Coordinated by Drs. Kimberly King-Jupiter, Travis Smith, and Broughton, the event marked a significant milestone, highlighting the ELPL program’s national reach and continued commitment to academic excellence. Originating five years ago under Dr. King-Jupiter’s visionary leadership as a focused dissertation writing support, the Boot Camp expanded to include the Research Symposium to promote scholarly engagement between doctoral students and senior researchers.
This initiative remains a critical support system for doctoral candidates, accelerating degree progress while fostering confidence and academic identity.