Student of the Year Spotlight: Susan Upward and the EdD in Leadership Studies from LSUS

When Susan Upward opened the email naming her Student of the Year in the online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership Studies program from LSUS, her first thought was that it had to be a mistake! Between long nights of studying, a military deployment, and leaning on lots of coffee (and a very supportive wife), she was simply focused on getting the work done. But that humility, paired with her drive to serve others through meaningful research, is exactly what makes her stand out.  

Susan is proof that with determination and the right support, it’s possible to earn the education you need to take yourself to the next level, even when life is at its busiest.

Meet Susan Upward 

What was your initial reaction when you learned you had been named Student of the Year for your program? 
Honestly, I thought it was a mistake! I received the e-mail, and I believe I responded with "I'm terribly sorry, I believe you have the wrong person." But after they confirmed that, indeed, they had the right person, I was very humbled. 

What do you think helped you stand out among your peers? 
Frankly, I have no idea! There are so many great professionals in this program who work incredibly hard in their studies while simultaneously balancing their jobs. 

What course, professor, or moment had the biggest impact on your journey at LSUS? 
There are two professors who have been incredibly impactful on my journey. First, Dr. John Harrison taught one of my first classes in the program. At the time, I was deployed to Kuwait and I was attending class in a Starbucks in the middle of the night (2 a.m.). Although I was nervous about whether I could balance my deployment and school, those fears were assuaged by his supportive teaching style. Secondly, Dr. Amelia Davis has been instrumental in my pursuit of meaningful qualitative research in my field of study. Both professors have been incredibly gracious with their time and expertise to assist me as I fumble along on this journey. 

How did you stay focused and motivated throughout your degree program? 
My focus is fueled by caffeine! But it also helps to have a supportive wife who allowed me to take some time on weeknights and weekends just to work. My motivation is, and always has been, service — producing research that contributes to the betterment of my profession and may help others has always been behind my work. 

What study habits or routines helped you succeed academically? 
Planning, planning, and more planning. I know there's only a finite number of hours and I have multiple competing priorities, so I would intentionally set out a study plan for the whole semester, week-by-week, to help me keep on track. Of course, the plan would have to change as life happened and something always comes up, but trying to get ahead at least allowed me to flex my schedule when I had to and still make deadlines. 

How has this degree shaped your personal or professional goals? 
I don't know if this degree has shaped my personal/professional goals or if it is a reflection of them. My goal has always been to produce meaningful work in my area of expertise, and pursuing my EdD was the next logical step towards that end. 

What advice would you give to future students—especially those completing their degrees online? 
Just keep going. There will be setbacks and times that you will seriously contemplate whether this is worth the effort. It is. Never quit. 

Forge a Future Shaped by Your Leadership 

Susan’s achievement reflects the determination and heart that so many online students bring to their studies. Her journey through the Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies program at LSU Shreveport shows what’s possible with focus, planning, and the right support system. If you’re considering advancing your career in leadership and education, LSU Online offers a pathway designed to meet you where you are and help you reach the next level. 

Explore the online Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies and apply today!