Throughout her career journey from classroom teacher to building leader to district administrator, Katie Girardot has carried with her the wisdom of hands-on experience and the heart of someone who deeply understands that education is about so much more than curriculum standards and test scores. It's about creating spaces where every student can thrive—especially those who need it most.

Now pursuing her Doctorate in Curriculum, Advocacy, and Policy at National Louis University, Katie's journey reflects a profound commitment to educational equity that has evolved throughout her career in K-12 education. Her path to NLU wasn't just about advancing her credentials; it was about finding a place where her interdisciplinary approach to educational challenges would be not just welcomed, but celebrated.

"I believe that a well-designed, equitable, and accessible curriculum is fundamental to the success of K–12 education," Katie explains, drawing from her multifaceted experience across different educational roles. Her choice to pursue NLU's Curriculum, Advocacy, and Policy program stems from a deep understanding that systemic change in education requires both theoretical knowledge and practical wisdom—something she's gained through years of hands-on experience in schools.

What drew Katie to NLU was the university's commitment to fostering differing perspectives and encouraging innovative, interdisciplinary inquiry. "I have felt empowered to delve deeper into complex questions that explore the interconnectedness of various disciplines," she notes. This approach aligns perfectly with her belief that "siloed thinking in education can hinder progress"—a philosophy that has shaped her research and leadership style.

Despite the challenges of a hybrid learning format, Katie discovered something transformative in her very first doctoral course. Her professor's deliberate emphasis on community-building created connections that transcended the physical classroom. Through meaningful storytelling and thoughtfully designed activities, Katie and her classmates formed bonds that continue to enrich her educational journey.

Learn More About NLU’s Ed.D. in Curriculum, Advocacy and Policy

"I continue to hold deep appreciation for that professor and the shared experiences that fostered such a supportive and enriching learning environment," Katie reflects. This experience exemplifies what she describes as NLU's "vibrant" atmosphere—a place where "creativity is not only welcomed but actively encouraged."

Katie's approach to research reflects her commitment to authentic representation and meaningful impact. In her Sociology coursework, she chose to investigate the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth, drawing from her personal identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and her professional experience working with middle school students as an assistant principal. Rather than settling for a traditional paper format, Katie proposed something more ambitious to her professor, Dr. Molly Buren.

With Dr. Buren's enthusiastic support, she created a multimedia presentation incorporating recorded narratives from her interview participants. This innovative approach allowed her to "capture the emotional depth and lived experiences that are often lost in text alone."

The project became both personally fulfilling and intellectually impactful, demonstrating NLU's commitment to supporting students in pursuing research that truly matters to them and their communities.

Katie's journey hasn't been without its challenges. Like many high-achieving educators, she has grappled with imposter syndrome throughout her career. "At every stage of my career, I have had to confront and work through the persistent challenge of imposter syndrome," she admits candidly.

Yet it's through the support of mentors, colleagues, students, and her NLU community that she has continued to grow and pursue new opportunities. "I am sincerely grateful for the unwavering support of my professors and classmates, whose guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in my continued development."

Katie's career aspirations reflect her commitment to servant leadership and systemic change. She aims to serve in district-level leadership roles, such as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum or Superintendent, where she can influence meaningful change at scale. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in empathy, integrity, and empowerment—always placing "the needs of students, teachers, and the community at the forefront of every decision."

"I believe that a deep and evolving understanding of the fundamental purpose of education is essential for today's district leaders to drive equitable and effective learning outcomes," she explains, articulating a vision that connects her research pursuits with her practical leadership goals.

Learn More About NLU’s National College of Education

For students considering NLU, Katie offers heartfelt advice rooted in her own experience: "Pursuing an advanced degree at any university can at times feel isolating and challenging. The journey demands a great deal of personal commitment and perseverance, yet it becomes most meaningful and enriching when experienced as part of a supportive community."

Her encouragement is simple but profound: engage actively with peers and professors, take advantage of opportunities to connect and collaborate, and participate in the broader NLU community. "These relationships can profoundly enhance both your academic and personal growth."

In Katie Girardot, we see not just a doctoral student pursuing advanced credentials, but an educator-researcher-leader who understands that transforming education requires both rigorous scholarship and genuine human connection. Her story reminds us that the most impactful educational leaders are those who never stop learning, never stop questioning, and never stop believing in the potential of every student they serve.