News Letter
Educational Psychology & Technology
Fall 2025
Content
Letter from Department Chair
Student Spotlight
Graduate Spotlight
Staff Spotlight
Study Abroad
KDP
Student Work
Back
Letter from the Department Chair
Dear EPT Students,I hope you all are having a wonderful Fall II term! Doctoral study is both an independent and collaborative journey, and your active participation in coursework and program activities deepens your learning, strengthens your critical thinking skills, and fosters meaningful academic and professional relationships. Consistent engagement with communication tools like Remind is vital to maintaining timely access to program updates, deadlines, and opportunities for academic and professional growth. Regular use of Remind facilitates ongoing interaction with your course instructors and Capstone Chair resulting in meaningful dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. Active participation, whether contributing to discussions, attending sessions, or responding promptly to messages, enhances both your individual learning and the collective experience of our doctoral community. Effective communication and sustained collaboration are key drivers of academic success.
Please note that active participation in your doctoral program extends beyond attending classes or completing assignments since it encompasses fully engaging with all aspects of our academic community. Consistently contributing your insights and experiences not only reinforces your own learning but also enriches the collective knowledge and perspective of your cohort. By taking initiative and remaining engaged, you build essential professional skills, cultivate meaningful relationships, and position yourself for success both within the program and in your future scholarly and professional endeavors. As you finalize your coursework this term, remember that your engagement and active participation are key to making the most of your doctoral journey. Staying connected, contributing to discussions, and collaborating with peers and faculty will enhance both your learning and the experience of our entire community. I encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity to engage, explore, and grow. Your involvement shapes a richer, more meaningful program experience for all.
Back
StudentSpotlight
Nicole Amore
View work
Back
Staff Spotlight
Nina Serdy
Back
Alumni Spotlights
Dr. Shaun Hawkins
Dr. Jennifer Howze-Owens
Richard Opoku
Nadia Iftekhar
Back
Study Abroad
Japan Study Abroad Spring II 2026
South Africa Summer II 2026 Study Abroad
KDP
Back
Calendar
Info
Joining KDP
Info
Recent Event
Info
Back
Student Work Spotlight
Bev Palmer
Lisa Washington
Dr. Shaun Hawkins
My name is Shaun Hawkins, and I am a 2024 graduate of the Educational Psychology and Technology (EPT) program at The Chicago School. I chose this doctoral program because I wanted to become a researcher in higher education, focusing on the application of technology in both education and healthcare. This summer, I accepted a position as a Research Associate at the University of Central Florida. In this role, I will teach courses in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), support the department’s efforts to achieve ABAI accreditation, assist with ongoing research projects, and continue developing my research agenda on the application of artificial intelligence in education. The EPT program prepared me for this next step through its rigorous coursework, opportunities for graduate teaching, collaborative research projects, and study abroad experiences. My professors encouraged me to explore my research interests deeply, and the projects I completed throughout the program have directly contributed to my readiness for this new role. My advice to current and future students is to stay focused on your long-term goals and align your projects and experiences with them. Consider becoming a graduate assistant to gain valuable teaching and research experience, and take advantage of study abroad opportunities to learn how your work can make an impact globally. Most importantly, stay true to your passion and live your dream!
Up coming Events
Dr. Jennifer Howze-Owens
I was recently promoted to the rank of Associate Professor at College of San Mateo in the California Community Colleges system. In her role as a faculty instructional designer, she supports faculty with pedagogical improvements and technological integrations. Over her four years at CSM, she has led both local and district distance education committees and led the open education/zero textbook costs program to support equitable learning opportunities. This year, she is leading the district's efforts on exploring and responsibly adopting artificial intelligence in the classroom through facilitating workshops and communities of practice.
KDP Past Event
Join KDP
Alpha Kappa Zeta is the Chicago School's chapter of Kappa Delta Pi's (KDP) International Honor Society in Education. As chapter officers, we are excited to promote excellence in education through various programs, services, and resources. Take advantage of the numerous benefits of KDP by becoming a member
Join Today
Spring II 2026: Japan
This interdisciplinary course will examine the intersection of diverse fields of psychology within Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan. Students will explore how psychology is integrated into learning contexts, analyze organizational processes, study mental health and wellbeing, and develop cross-cultural understandings. Course content and in-country activities will provide students the opportunity to explore and gain an understanding of the country’s educational structure and promoting mental health and wellbeing. Students will also engage in service-learning activities in which they will interact with community members and serve local organizations. The study abroad course will also include cultural excursions to Mount Fuji, historical temples and shrines, the Arashiyama District, city tours, and immersion in local communities. This course is offered online in Spring II 2025. The course commences on March 2, 2026. In-country travel is scheduled from April 14 – April 23, 2026.
Nina Serdy
Nina Serdy is a department manager for the College of Graduate and Professional Studies. She works across multiple departments managing: Educational Psychology and Technology, Public Health, and Biomedical Sciences. She completed her M.A in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at The Chicago School Chicago campus and has been working as a department manager from her home in Detroit, MI the past 10 years. What Nina enjoys most about working at The Chicago School are the opportunities she’s had for professional development. Some highlights include: earning a Research Methodologies in Practice micro-credential, becoming certified in Teaching Online Pedagogy and Standards, and creating a virtual, interactive environment to host an online poster session for students. In her free time, Nina enjoys hosting game nights with friends, DIY projects, baking, and gardening.
Summer II 2026 South Africa
This course is designed to provide students an understanding of the South African cultural, educational, economic, health, legal and political structures, practices, and beliefs. Through course content and participation in scheduled in-county activities, students will gain knowledge in a broad range of topics including group and organizational dynamics, global mental health, and program design and evaluation. The course travel component will include active engagement in workshops with South African educators and students, cultural excursions, and an exploration of the economic, tourism, educational, political, and social-health sectors. Students will engage in service-learning while in-country at a secondary school through collaborative professional development sessions. This course is offered online in Summer II 2026. The course commences on June 29, 2026. In-country travel is scheduled from August 13 – August 22, 2026.
Nadia Iftekhar
Advice for Dissertation Students: Remember, the dissertation process is a marathon, not a race. Focus on what’s right in front of you instead of the entire finish line. Break each requirement into smaller, manageable pieces. Don’t take shortcuts, no matter how tempting. Take the time to understand your topic deeply and take breaks when needed. Most importantly, choose a topic you truly care about, because you’ll be spending a lot of time with it and getting to know it inside and out. Future Career Plans: My future plans include continuing to merge educational psychology, technology, and Deaf education through instructional design and teacher training. I plan to expand the offerings of my company, Modal Education, developing accessible, technology-driven learning tools for Deaf/HH students and professional development programs for their teachers. I also hope to conduct future research exploring how artificial intelligence can reduce teacher burnout by supporting lesson differentiation and planning efficiency. I’m open to opportunities that advance accessibility and the thoughtful integration of technology in education, especially initiatives that make learning more inclusive for diverse learners.
Background I began my career as a crisis counselor and now serve as a financial therapist and advisor for families impacted by special needs and trauma. My work sits at the intersection of financial planning and suicide prevention, where I support clients through both practical strategies and compassionate interviewing. I currently teach Decision Making for Business Owners and Estate Planning, Tax Planning, Insurance Planning and the Psychology of Financial Planning at Harper College, NYU, UCLA, and John Carroll University. Research Interests My current research interests explore how video games, artificial intelligence, and neurofeedback can be used as tools to promote financial literacy and healing for survivors of trauma. I am also interested in barriers to wealth-building for neurodivergent populations and how technology can expand access to education and financial well-being. Career Aspirations I aspire to become a decision scientist, building on my foundations in psychology, technology, education, taxation, estate planning, and financial therapy. I hope to design evidence-based interventions that support both financial stability and mental health. Together with my wife, a hospice and palliative care nurse practitioner, I am also exploring non-pharmacological approaches, such as neurofeedback, to improve outcomes for patients and families navigating trauma, illness, and loss. Words of Advice for New Students This journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the small victories along the way and remember that progress is made one step at a time. What You Enjoy in Your Free Time I dedicate much of my free time to pro bono financial literacy work and training for triathlons to raise awareness for children with special needs. A fun fact is that I was once in a wheelchair as a child and had to relearn how to walk. Now I swim, bike, and run so that every kid has a chance to play.
Fall 2025
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Transcript
News Letter
Educational Psychology & Technology
Fall 2025
Content
Letter from Department Chair
Student Spotlight
Graduate Spotlight
Staff Spotlight
Study Abroad
KDP
Student Work
Back
Letter from the Department Chair
Dear EPT Students,I hope you all are having a wonderful Fall II term! Doctoral study is both an independent and collaborative journey, and your active participation in coursework and program activities deepens your learning, strengthens your critical thinking skills, and fosters meaningful academic and professional relationships. Consistent engagement with communication tools like Remind is vital to maintaining timely access to program updates, deadlines, and opportunities for academic and professional growth. Regular use of Remind facilitates ongoing interaction with your course instructors and Capstone Chair resulting in meaningful dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. Active participation, whether contributing to discussions, attending sessions, or responding promptly to messages, enhances both your individual learning and the collective experience of our doctoral community. Effective communication and sustained collaboration are key drivers of academic success.
Please note that active participation in your doctoral program extends beyond attending classes or completing assignments since it encompasses fully engaging with all aspects of our academic community. Consistently contributing your insights and experiences not only reinforces your own learning but also enriches the collective knowledge and perspective of your cohort. By taking initiative and remaining engaged, you build essential professional skills, cultivate meaningful relationships, and position yourself for success both within the program and in your future scholarly and professional endeavors. As you finalize your coursework this term, remember that your engagement and active participation are key to making the most of your doctoral journey. Staying connected, contributing to discussions, and collaborating with peers and faculty will enhance both your learning and the experience of our entire community. I encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity to engage, explore, and grow. Your involvement shapes a richer, more meaningful program experience for all.
Back
StudentSpotlight
Nicole Amore
View work
Back
Staff Spotlight
Nina Serdy
Back
Alumni Spotlights
Dr. Shaun Hawkins
Dr. Jennifer Howze-Owens
Richard Opoku
Nadia Iftekhar
Back
Study Abroad
Japan Study Abroad Spring II 2026
South Africa Summer II 2026 Study Abroad
KDP
Back
Calendar
Info
Joining KDP
Info
Recent Event
Info
Back
Student Work Spotlight
Bev Palmer
Lisa Washington
Dr. Shaun Hawkins
My name is Shaun Hawkins, and I am a 2024 graduate of the Educational Psychology and Technology (EPT) program at The Chicago School. I chose this doctoral program because I wanted to become a researcher in higher education, focusing on the application of technology in both education and healthcare. This summer, I accepted a position as a Research Associate at the University of Central Florida. In this role, I will teach courses in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), support the department’s efforts to achieve ABAI accreditation, assist with ongoing research projects, and continue developing my research agenda on the application of artificial intelligence in education. The EPT program prepared me for this next step through its rigorous coursework, opportunities for graduate teaching, collaborative research projects, and study abroad experiences. My professors encouraged me to explore my research interests deeply, and the projects I completed throughout the program have directly contributed to my readiness for this new role. My advice to current and future students is to stay focused on your long-term goals and align your projects and experiences with them. Consider becoming a graduate assistant to gain valuable teaching and research experience, and take advantage of study abroad opportunities to learn how your work can make an impact globally. Most importantly, stay true to your passion and live your dream!
Up coming Events
Dr. Jennifer Howze-Owens
I was recently promoted to the rank of Associate Professor at College of San Mateo in the California Community Colleges system. In her role as a faculty instructional designer, she supports faculty with pedagogical improvements and technological integrations. Over her four years at CSM, she has led both local and district distance education committees and led the open education/zero textbook costs program to support equitable learning opportunities. This year, she is leading the district's efforts on exploring and responsibly adopting artificial intelligence in the classroom through facilitating workshops and communities of practice.
KDP Past Event
Join KDP
Alpha Kappa Zeta is the Chicago School's chapter of Kappa Delta Pi's (KDP) International Honor Society in Education. As chapter officers, we are excited to promote excellence in education through various programs, services, and resources. Take advantage of the numerous benefits of KDP by becoming a member
Join Today
Spring II 2026: Japan
This interdisciplinary course will examine the intersection of diverse fields of psychology within Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan. Students will explore how psychology is integrated into learning contexts, analyze organizational processes, study mental health and wellbeing, and develop cross-cultural understandings. Course content and in-country activities will provide students the opportunity to explore and gain an understanding of the country’s educational structure and promoting mental health and wellbeing. Students will also engage in service-learning activities in which they will interact with community members and serve local organizations. The study abroad course will also include cultural excursions to Mount Fuji, historical temples and shrines, the Arashiyama District, city tours, and immersion in local communities. This course is offered online in Spring II 2025. The course commences on March 2, 2026. In-country travel is scheduled from April 14 – April 23, 2026.
Nina Serdy
Nina Serdy is a department manager for the College of Graduate and Professional Studies. She works across multiple departments managing: Educational Psychology and Technology, Public Health, and Biomedical Sciences. She completed her M.A in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at The Chicago School Chicago campus and has been working as a department manager from her home in Detroit, MI the past 10 years. What Nina enjoys most about working at The Chicago School are the opportunities she’s had for professional development. Some highlights include: earning a Research Methodologies in Practice micro-credential, becoming certified in Teaching Online Pedagogy and Standards, and creating a virtual, interactive environment to host an online poster session for students. In her free time, Nina enjoys hosting game nights with friends, DIY projects, baking, and gardening.
Summer II 2026 South Africa
This course is designed to provide students an understanding of the South African cultural, educational, economic, health, legal and political structures, practices, and beliefs. Through course content and participation in scheduled in-county activities, students will gain knowledge in a broad range of topics including group and organizational dynamics, global mental health, and program design and evaluation. The course travel component will include active engagement in workshops with South African educators and students, cultural excursions, and an exploration of the economic, tourism, educational, political, and social-health sectors. Students will engage in service-learning while in-country at a secondary school through collaborative professional development sessions. This course is offered online in Summer II 2026. The course commences on June 29, 2026. In-country travel is scheduled from August 13 – August 22, 2026.
Nadia Iftekhar
Advice for Dissertation Students: Remember, the dissertation process is a marathon, not a race. Focus on what’s right in front of you instead of the entire finish line. Break each requirement into smaller, manageable pieces. Don’t take shortcuts, no matter how tempting. Take the time to understand your topic deeply and take breaks when needed. Most importantly, choose a topic you truly care about, because you’ll be spending a lot of time with it and getting to know it inside and out. Future Career Plans: My future plans include continuing to merge educational psychology, technology, and Deaf education through instructional design and teacher training. I plan to expand the offerings of my company, Modal Education, developing accessible, technology-driven learning tools for Deaf/HH students and professional development programs for their teachers. I also hope to conduct future research exploring how artificial intelligence can reduce teacher burnout by supporting lesson differentiation and planning efficiency. I’m open to opportunities that advance accessibility and the thoughtful integration of technology in education, especially initiatives that make learning more inclusive for diverse learners.
Background I began my career as a crisis counselor and now serve as a financial therapist and advisor for families impacted by special needs and trauma. My work sits at the intersection of financial planning and suicide prevention, where I support clients through both practical strategies and compassionate interviewing. I currently teach Decision Making for Business Owners and Estate Planning, Tax Planning, Insurance Planning and the Psychology of Financial Planning at Harper College, NYU, UCLA, and John Carroll University. Research Interests My current research interests explore how video games, artificial intelligence, and neurofeedback can be used as tools to promote financial literacy and healing for survivors of trauma. I am also interested in barriers to wealth-building for neurodivergent populations and how technology can expand access to education and financial well-being. Career Aspirations I aspire to become a decision scientist, building on my foundations in psychology, technology, education, taxation, estate planning, and financial therapy. I hope to design evidence-based interventions that support both financial stability and mental health. Together with my wife, a hospice and palliative care nurse practitioner, I am also exploring non-pharmacological approaches, such as neurofeedback, to improve outcomes for patients and families navigating trauma, illness, and loss. Words of Advice for New Students This journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the small victories along the way and remember that progress is made one step at a time. What You Enjoy in Your Free Time I dedicate much of my free time to pro bono financial literacy work and training for triathlons to raise awareness for children with special needs. A fun fact is that I was once in a wheelchair as a child and had to relearn how to walk. Now I swim, bike, and run so that every kid has a chance to play.