Contact Us

Educational Leadership
Delzell Education Center
414 E. Clark St.
Vermillion, SD 57069
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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Welcome to the Division of Educational Leadership

In the Division of Educational Leadership, we foster a community of learners, scholars, educators and advocates who are focused on growing their leadership skills and impacting the lives of others. If you're looking for a flexible program that allows you to work while furthering your education, you'll find it here. Our division offers small classes and highly accessible faculty and advisors — creating an environment that will engage you in cycles of thought and action based upon theoretical, ethical and professional knowledge. By offering real-world learning experiences and research opportunities, we prepare our students for successful futures, whether that be in further graduate studies or immediate professional work as principals, curriculum directors, superintendents or other leaders.

Join our community of motivational leaders in education.


Programs

Meet the Department

Get to know faculty and staff in the Division of Educational Leadership. Our faculty are experts in their fields, providing experience and practical knowledge to the classroom.
Bio Image for Faculty Member Jesse Sealey

Jesse Sealey

Division Chair
Bio Image for Faculty Member Mejai Avoseh

Mejai Avoseh

Professor
Bio Image for Faculty Member David Barker

David Barker

Assistant Professor of Practice
Bio Image for Faculty Member Gary Cheeseman

Gary Cheeseman

Associate Professor
Bio Image for Faculty Member Vassa Grichko

Vassa Grichko

Assistant Professor
Bio Image for Faculty Member Wendy Knutson

Wendy Knutson

Senior Secretary
Bio Image for Faculty Member Erin Lehmann

Erin Lehmann

Assistant Professor
Bio Image for Faculty Member David Swank

David Swank

Assistant Professor of Practice

Specialty

PK12 Principalship

Known for Excellence

With qualities like small class sizes, specialized programs and incredible student opportunities, USD is not your typical university. What makes us unique is what makes your education exceptional.

DEPARTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Explore the variety of opportunities and resources available to educational leadership students.

A teacher speaking to a student.

Your Education Matters

Our division provides you with a comprehensive and contemporary program which includes state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty. We strive to help students grow as individuals and professionals in their careers. Our programs will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to enter a growing field where principals, superintendents, department leaders and more are being hired at high rates. An education here can help set yourself apart with a strong foundation in your field. 
An educational leadership student attending a hybrid class.

Join Your Class Virtually or In-Person

Our Hi-Flex courses give you the flexibility you need. Sometimes, you want to talk to your instructor and classmates face-to-face. Other times, you need the accessibility of joining class virtually. With our cutting-edge technology, both choices are available. Designed with working professionals in mind, Hi-Flex courses give you the option to join either in-person or virtually for each class session. Hi-Flex classes are also offered throughout South Dakota, making it easier for students to join in-person with less travel. Attend class in the way that works best for you!

hear from a usd alum

Success story Kyle Laughlin smiling.
This program has allowed me to grow as a true leader of an educational organization and developed a more comprehensive understanding of what it takes to be an effective leader within education. My instructors and advisors supported me in my educational goal and professionals goals, which connected wanting to be a leader within an educational organization.

Kyle Laughlin

Ed.D. Pre-K–12 Educational Leadership '22
Director, Technology and Innovation in Education
Spearfish, SD