Sarah Villarreal '98, Ph.D.

Sarah Villarreal '98 has just earned her Ph.D. in leadership and change from Antioch University. Her dissertation was titled, "A Narrative Inquiry of Latinx Undergraduates’ Participation in High-Impact Educational Practices."

Villarreal's findings revealed five major course elements associated with deep learning and engagement: professor behaviors or traits, real-world and relevant content, preparation for future or career, relationships with peers, and diverse perspectives. A key implication for practice is that faculty are central to student success, and through the application of teaching and curricular elements, every academic course can ensure deep learning and engagement for HUS. Faculty/individual, institutional, and policy level changes and efforts can rapidly scale HUS’ access to courses that result in positive educational outcomes including retention and graduation.

Villarreal earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and has been a public higher education professional since 2001. She currently serves as Chief of Staff at California State University San Marcos, overseeing the Office of the President.