Member Spotlight: Laura Saylor, PH.D.

Laura is the dean at the School of Education at Mount St. Joseph University and is a member of the Dissemination Committee.

Describe your role/involvement with the Ohio Deans Compact.
My role within the Ohio Deans Compact involves active participation in collaborative efforts aimed at improving education outcomes across Ohio. As a leader in educator preparation and a Compact member, I have an opportunity to contribute to discussions, initiatives, and projects that focus on enhancing educator preparation, promoting equity in education, and fostering partnerships among stakeholders in the P20 continuum.

How does your involvement with the Compact benefit you and/or your organization?
My involvement benefits me personally and the School of Education at Mount St. Joseph University in several ways. Firstly, it provides opportunities for professional development and networking with fellow educators, policymakers, and leaders. Because of the Compact, I have gained (and continue to gain) valuable insights, resources, and best practices that inform my work in leading an educator prep program (EPP) and enhanced my effectiveness as an educator. Additionally, being part of the Compact allows the School of Education at Mount St. Joseph University to stay informed about statewide education initiatives, collaborate on innovative projects, and leverage collective expertise to address challenges and opportunities in education. Simply put, our School of Education is better because of our involvement with the Dean’s Compact.

Why is the work of the Compact important?
The work of the Compact is critically important because it addresses key issues facing education in Ohio and aims to improve outcomes for all students. By fostering collaboration among deans of education, EPP leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders, the Compact promotes evidence-based practices, advances equity and inclusivity in education, and strengthens the educator pipeline. Through this collective action, the Compact seeks to address systemic barriers, promote student success, and support the development of highly effective educators prepared to meet the needs of diverse learners.

What excites you most about working with the Compact and its members?
What excites me most about working with the Compact and its members is the opportunity to collaborate with passionate and dedicated individuals who share a common commitment to advancing education in Ohio. I am inspired by the collective expertise, innovative ideas, and collaborative spirit of Compact members, as well as their unwavering dedication to improving educational opportunities and outcomes for all students. Together, we have the potential to make a significant impact on the future of education in Ohio and create positive change that benefits students, educators, and communities across the state.