Dr. Andre Temple Economic Development Specialist University of Tennessee Ed.D. in Higher and Adult Education

Why did you choose Higher and Adult Education?

The University of Memphis Higher and Adult Education (HIAD) Program presented me a great opportunity to retool myself for a leadership role in the workplace. This program provides organizational leadership strategies and adult educational theories, which transcends into professional development skills that are relevant in any industry. Furthermore, this program provided me the opportunity to differentiate myself in the workplace by equipping me with a variety of tools to succeed in any organizational leadership role.

How did this degree prepare you or improve your preparation for your current role?

After graduating, I accepted a new role as an Economic Development Specialist with the University of Tennessee. My role requires strong leadership and analytical skills to leverage university expertise and resources in the community and workplace. Moreover, many of these leadership and analytical skills were developed and refined as a result of this program. In summary, this program provided me the opportunity to differentiate myself in the workplace and community by opening many doors, which may have never been opened.

What impact has your degree had on your life or career?

Within a year from commencement, I obtained a rewarding career and obtained adjunct positions with other well respected institutions of higher learning. Over all, completion of the degree provided me with a sense of self-accomplishment, improved my overall quality of life, and has resulted in a heightened sense of respect from colleagues and friends.

The faculty and staff's professionalism, industry passion, personal support, and coaching has provided me a model/best practices, which has inspired me to higher levels of accountability as a facilitator of learning and organizational leader.