Otis Clarke, EdD

Rise to the challenge in shaping young minds.

Otis Clarke earned his undergraduate degree in History from Providence College in Rhode Island. He later returned to Providence College to obtain a master’s degree in U.S. History with a minor in European History.

While living in Pennsylvania, Otis gained interest in pursuing a master’s degree in Education. Upon doing research, GMercyU piqued his interest and soon became his top choice for a number of reasons.

“These reasons were its proximity to my home, its rolling admissions option, its online course format which enabled be to work while studying unimpeded, and its cost of attendance was not excessive when compared to other programs,” said Otis.

Otis earned his master’s of education in 2020 from GMercyU.

Pursuing His EdD

“Pursuing a terminal degree was a fulfillment of a personal goal I wrote to myself in 2013. At that time, my intent was to complete a doctorate in history – a field in which I am still very passionate about,” shared Otis.

For Otis, there were three main factors that led him to pursue his doctorate at GMercyU.

First, while in the master’s program, Dr. Marianne Kaemmer encouraged Otis in the direction of a doctoral degree while in one of her courses.

Dr. Ray Bandlow personally sent Otis an invitation to join the program after reviewing a research project he completed during the master’s program. His research was titled Evaluations of Family and School Dynamics on Chronic Absenteeism and Students’ Learning Outcomes.

“Third, reflecting on the supportive environment of the institution ranging from professors, interacting with other departments, and structure of courses preparing educators and their students for successful outcomes,” said Otis.

Experience in the EdD Program

“Undoubtedly, I am very satisfied with the decision to enroll in the EdD program. I am enjoying the learning process, and I am experiencing tremendous personal and professional growth,” Otis said.

Faculty members who stood out include Dr. Kaemmer, Dr. Tamarah Smith, Dr. Tiffany Cresswell-Yeager, and Dr. Kasunich.

“Dr. Kaemmer is the through line of being consistent with her support of my growth. I can always reach out to Dr. Smith for all round support and guidance, and she adds that personal touch in her interactions as if we have known each other for ages,” said Otis.

Otis particularly enjoyed the course Culturally-Responsive Educational Leader, taught by Dr. Cresswell-Yeager, and recalls that it was “remarkable for self-evaluation and embracing various cultures not to perpetuate stereotypes, but to understand about each individual at a meaningful level.”

Dr. Kasunich has served as Otis’s dissertation advisor and had guided him to stay the course while adapting to changing circumstances.

Dissertation Process

For his dissertation, Otis choice the topic Evaluating the Impact of COVID-19 on Navajo Nation Indigenous High School Student Population.

His inspiration for the topic came from his move from Pennsylvania to Navajo Nation, Arizona in 2021 at the height of the pandemic. Otis was severely taken back by the major inadequacies in technological infrastructure and educational resources available in comparison to educational systems in Pennsylvania.

“This prompted my interest in understanding and uncovering some of the root causes of these problems affecting students’ access to education prior to, and even more so, during the COVID-19 pandemic. I wanted to commit my energies with this dissertation towards documenting students’ accounts on how COVID-19 affected their access to education. It is my hope that its findings can fuel infrastructural improvement and speed up resources for students in the community,” said Otis.

Choosing Education

When asked why he chose the field of education, Otis simply stated, “I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others and envisioned education as the opportune way to serve my community, and give back to those in need.”

While transitioning between careers, Otis volunteered at Norristown Literacy Council where he substituted as a teacher and served as educational support in various school districts.

“I worked in highly resourced schools and those with socioeconomic challenges. I learned from leaders in these different institutions, and I supported students with a range of needs,” said Otis.

Looking to the Future

After earning his doctoral degree with a principal certification, Otis hopes to utilize these qualifications in a leadership capacity within a school.

“The degree thus far has allowed me to examine school operations for successful aspects and identify areas of weaknesses, promoting the development of plans for meaningful changes,” said Otis.

Otis intends to transition into a leadership role to help in the promoting a learning culture and working environment responsive to the need of the community, while also being inclusive and supportive of the vast array of needs of faculty and students.

I hope to have a positive impact on students and their families by giving my time and energies to those who are in need. I want families to see the value of investment in quality education as a pathway to shape their lives and, in effect, to shape their communities. I want to empower students to demonstrate confidence in advocating for themselves and for the voiceless among them.

Advice for Future Educators

The need for new teachers is greater than ever before.

“Students are in need of reliable mentorship, a supportive learning environment, a safe and welcoming space to learn, and consistency in their day,” said Otis.