Dec. 10, 2024
Contact: Brian Consiglio, consigliob@missouri.edu
Blake Willoughby has a lot on his plate. Pursuing a doctoral degree in educational leadership and policy analysis (ELPA) at the University of Missouri while working full-time as director of education for the Missouri REALTORS® would fill up anyone’s schedule, but Willoughby also finds time to serve on the board for Columbia Public Schools.
His mission is two-fold: to provide support for school board members, and in doing so, to create high-quality environments, outcomes and opportunities for the students they serve.
“Now as a Mizzou graduate, I will utilize my degree to engage in research and work that will support myself and other school board members in our professional development,” Willoughby said. “My goal is to ensure that we are being the best board members possible for the community and making the best decisions possible.”
The Phenix City, Alabama, native has been able to apply his Mizzou coursework to his position on the school board to help others.
“Taking ELPA courses and conducting research broadened my perspectives on various aspects of education, educational leadership and policy analysis, allowing me to more quickly find resources to help inform decisions,” Willoughby said. “I have also been able to provide this expertise and knowledge to my colleagues on the board when we have had to make tough decisions.”
Read on for a Q&A with Willoughby about his Mizzou experience.
Why did you choose Mizzou?
I chose Mizzou for three reasons: the quality of the faculty, the campus being a phenomenal space to experience and engage with others, and because of how welcoming and integrated the city community is with the college community.
How has Mizzou helped you achieve your goals?
Initially, Mizzou gave me the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in theatre and performance studies with the financial help of a graduate instructor job and a fellowship. I stayed in Columbia to pursue my doctoral degree because of the positive environment on campus. Both Mizzou faculty and the student government at Mizzou really show that they care for their students.
Also, Mizzou has believed in me as a student. Mizzou has given me the support and training necessary to become the researcher I am today and even more personally, the man I am today.
How did you take advantage of hands-on learning opportunities on campus?
In the College of Education and Human Development, I took part in opportunities through The Bridge program to mentor students in Columbia Public Schools. Theresa Metz was a phenomenal leader for this program and gave Mizzou students a quality experience for engaging middle and high school students.
I also took part in research projects with Mizzou faculty members, which gave me the opportunity to practice conducting research and write research articles that have led to publications.
Why are you proud to be a Tiger?
I am proud to be a Tiger because the values at Mizzou are deeply engrained in every experience. The commitment the Mizzou staff and faculty have towards the development and future prosperity of their students is something that is not present at all institutions with the highest level of research activity.
What would you tell someone who is interested in coming to Mizzou?
If you are interested in having opportunities that will provide you experiences outside the classroom to grow and enhance your capacity to be a qualified individual in your degree field, Mizzou is the university for you. At Mizzou, you receive the expertise of quality faculty, additional hands-on experiences to grow and the chance to be part of an educational environment that backs up words with actions.
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