Dr. Raymond Loverso (EdD 2023) described his experience in the Manhattanville Doctoral Program as a turning point in his life and career. As a dedicated classroom teacher, he had not envisioned becoming an administrator but joining the EdD program presented new opportunities, giving him the confidence and clarity to pursue leadership. As Manhattanville celebrates its 15th anniversary, Dr. Loverso reflects on how the program shifted his perspective, helping him see himself not only as a leader but as a change agent in education.
Drawn to Manhattanville for its focus on local improvement, Dr. Loverso found a community among professors and peers who understood the unique demands of suburban schools. He views the university’s growth as a testament to the program’s impact on educators throughout the region.
Faculty were instrumental in shaping his leadership philosophy and academic growth, modeling excellence in both pedagogy and mentorship. One of his most vivid memories from the program is his initial interview with Renee Gargano [then Assistant Director of the Doctoral Program], whose warmth and encouragement made a lasting impression and set the tone for a deeply supportive journey. Another memorable moment came from the challenging yet influential educational policy course with Dr. Ken Mitchell that pushed him to become a deeper thinker and stronger writer. The most inspiring memory he has is of his dissertation chair, Dr. Marien, who had unwavering belief in him that ultimately propelled him across the finish line.
While conducting research, Dr. Loverso found joy in the process of connecting with educators across New York State and analyzing real-world data. Through his dissertation, “THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ELEMENTARY TEACHERS’ SCIENCE TEACHING SELF-EFICACY AND THEIR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY,” he explored the effects of professional development on the science teaching self-efficacy of elementary teachers. As a high school science teacher and former director, he became aware of the unique needs of elementary teachers and how their teaching ultimately impacts learning in high school. His research underscored the need for consistent, high-quality professional development that empowers teachers with the tools and confidence to teach science in meaningful, integrated ways. He believes investing in this type of support is essential to long term student success. 
To learn more about the doctoral program, we invite you to attend an upcoming info session
Donations to the Doctoral Program EmpowerEdD Leadership Fund support our students and their research
The “EmpowerEdD Leadership Fund” Fund was established in 2015 to pay it forward to the Manhattanville University Doctoral Program. We thank you for your generosity and support of the Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership!
Take Your Career to the Next Level
Elevate your leadership skills, deepen your understanding of critical and contemporary education issues, and learn to help solve the current challenges in P-20 education.
Learn to Inspire Change
The Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership from Manhattanville, offered in partnership with Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES, utilizes a forward-thinking approach to educational leadership that is ideal for practicing and aspiring leaders in any educational context. It is designed to support the goals of educational professionals who seek to develop their leadership skills for career advancement or current job enhancement.
