The Reich College of Education’s (RCOE) doctoral program in educational leadership has expanded by adding two new positions - a dissertation coach and a student advisor.
“Earning a doctorate has a unique intensity, and the addition of these new positions enables our program to provide much more sustained, individual support for doctoral students on the journey,” noted Dr. Vachel Miller, professor in the Department of Leadership and Educational Studies and Doctoral Program Director. “The new positions make a strong program even better!”
Dramaine Freeman has joined as the new doctoral student advisor, focusing on supporting incoming and current doctoral students in coursework and program planning, managing work/life balance, and transitioning to the post-coursework phase of the program.
“This position will cause me to stretch the new abilities I have gained as a doctoral student,” noted Freeman. “It also allowed me to use my past experiences as a school leader to support students in coursework and life. I am most excited to start a new journey that will allow me to meet new people and learn new things.”
Freeman earned a Bachelor of Science in electronics and computer technology from North Carolina A&T, and his school administration license and Ed.S. from Appalachian State University. He is scheduled to complete his Ed.D. in May 2023 from App State.
Freeman is excited to give back to other students. “I will always be thankful to the App State staff for always ensuring my program's completion was a positive experience.”
Prior to joining the RCOE, Freeman was a middle school principal. In his spare time, Freeman loves to travel, exercise, and watch movies.
Dr. Star Brown has joined as the new doctoral dissertation coach. In her role, she supports students in the dissertation phase of the program, providing guidance for dissertation development, academic writing, and sustaining progress through the completion of the dissertation journey.
“The doctoral program at Appalachian was truly a transformational experience for me,” noted Brown. “I am energized about the opportunity to support current doctoral students post-coursework as they navigate the independent phases of the program and develop their dissertations. Participating in the celebratory milestone events that culminate the doctoral journey such as dissertation defenses, hooding ceremonies, and graduation will be the highlights of my academic year.”
Brown is a four-time App State alumna, earning her Bachelor’s of Science in business administration and accounting, Master’s of Science in accounting, Ed.S. in higher education administration, and a doctorate in educational leadership. As a doctoral student, she was the recipient of the Alice P. Naylor Outstanding Dissertation Award in 2018 for her analysis of the “manufacturing” of student-athletes in the university system.
Prior to joining the RCOE, Brown served as an instructor, administrator, student advisor, and faculty mentor in the community college system, a dissertation committee chair and committee member, a graduate faculty affiliate member, an adjunct graduate faculty member in the department of leadership and educational studies, and a writing coach for the doctoral program in educational leadership.
When not in school, Brown enjoys a nice, hot tea while reading a great book. She also enjoys all things British, spending time outdoors, and traveling to new adventures.
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