Terri Gaeddert, associate professor of education and associate dean at Sterling College, successfully defended her dissertation for the doctor of education degree from Wichita State University in August. Her dissertation discusses how faith and learning is perceived on a Christ-centered campus by administration, faculty and students.

“The results of the study reveal that culture and leadership played a role in helping the community achieve the mission of integrating faith and learning. The conclusions imply that schools should discuss what the integration of faith and learning means for their unique campus culture and align leadership with organizational culture to support the achievement of their mission,” said Gaeddert.

“Purposeful dialog between leaders on campus and structured support for professors as they build curriculum is necessary for successful integration of faith and learning. As an associate dean, I hope to provide that support to our department chairs. This research has made me more aware of how our own department provides a Christ-centered approach when working with students, both inside and outside the classroom,” said Gaeddert.

Gaeddert holds several positions as a leader on campus. In addition to her role as a faculty member and associate dean, she is director for the Sterling Teacher Education Program and department chair for the College’s Department of Education.

“Terri has been a leader on campus for many years. Finishing her Doctor of Education while filling several leadership roles on campus is quite a feat, and we are proud of her. She and her colleagues have modeled for our students what it means to be a lifelong learner. Since 2010, our percentage of faculty with a terminal degree has risen almost 20 percent. Terri’s content knowledge, experience in education and enthusiastic personality make her a vital part of the faculty at Sterling College,” said Dr. Gregory P. Kerr, vice president for academic affairs.

Gaeddert also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Friends University and a Bachelor of Science in Education with endorsements in mathematics, computer science and coaching from Chadron State College. Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kan., with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.