Honoring Black Excellence: Dr. Jacob Easley II – A Visionary Leader Shaping the Future of Education

Dr. Jacob Easley II is a trailblazing educational leader, researcher, and entrepreneur driving equity and excellence in education. An internationally accomplished expert in policy and leadership, his impact spans institutions and states, shaping the future of education with bold innovation and transformative vision.

As part of Elation Communications’ special series celebrating Black excellence during Black History Month 2025, we proudly recognize Dr. Jacob Easley II, an internationally accomplished educational leader, researcher, and entrepreneur whose dedication to equity and excellence in education continues to catalyze impactful transformation.

A Visionary in Educational Policy and Leadership

With a career spanning multiple states and institutions, Dr. Easley is an internationally accomplished expert in educational policy, politics, and leadership. His work has significantly shaped conversations around educational accountability, effectiveness, and improvement. He has held various faculty and administrative positions across the country, including serving as the dean of the graduate school of education at Touro College, dean of the school of education and professional studies at Eastern Connecticut State University and chair of the education division at the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown. In these roles, he has been instrumental in enhancing academic programs, fostering innovation, and advocating for policies that ensure equitable access to quality education. He currently leads the graduate school of education at Fordham University.

Dr. Easley’s influence extends beyond academia. As the president of Xcelerated Excellence Consulting LLC and the founder of the EDUP Xcelerated Excellence podcast, he continues to engage and inspire educators, policymakers, and leaders in discussions about the future of education. His research and publications, including his latest book Educational Accountability: International Perspectives on Challenges and Possibilities for School Leadership, contribute valuable insights into the global landscape of educational accountability and school effectiveness.

“The impact is not always immediate or occurs downstream.”

A Commitment to Equity and Excellence

Throughout his career, Dr. Easley has remained steadfast in his commitment to educational equity. He is a lifetime member and former president of the National Association of Holmes Scholars Alumni (NAHSA) and a member of the inaugural board of directors for the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). His dedication to creating meaningful change has been recognized through prestigious honors, including being selected as one of ten Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars by the U.S. Department of Education.

His academic journey is equally impressive. Dr. Easley holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Pennsylvania State University, an M.A. in Applied Linguistics/English from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a B.A. in Spanish from Morehouse College. He also earned a graduate certificate in Educational Administration from Georgia State University. His expertise, coupled with his passion for equity, positions him as a thought leader in the ongoing struggle to create inclusive, high-quality educational systems.

Pushing Boundaries in Education

When asked what inspires him to keep pushing boundaries in his work, Dr. Easley reflects on the continuous and evolving struggle for educational equity and effectiveness. “The conditions of education that produce equitable access, engagement, and outcomes for marginalized communities are contextually sensitive. Moreover, the struggle to achieve such conditions is continually anew,” he explains. He believes that equity in education requires a collective and interdisciplinary effort—one that challenges existing policies, fosters new learning, and advocates for systemic change.

“Find your ‘why’ that anchors your influence in the world. Then, actively engage in communities that support your purpose.”

Recognizing Impact

Dr. Easley acknowledges that measuring impact in education is often a long-term process. “The impact is not always immediate or occurs downstream,” he says. “For me impact is not reflected in accolades nor awards, but in inspiration expressed by my students, outcomes of advocacy that lead to greater equity and strengthen the quality of educator preparation, and community members’ willingness to engage in networks or productions I have helped to develop.” One of his proudest achievements is founding the Culture, Race, and Intersectionality (CRI) Network for the International Congress for School Effectiveness and Improvement (ICSEI). This initiative has brought together global voices to foster and protect educational equity on an international scale.

Advice for the Next Generation of Black Leaders

To aspiring Black leaders, Dr. Easley offers a powerful message: “Find your ‘why’ that anchors your influence in the world. Then, actively engage in communities that support your purpose.” He encourages emerging leaders to seek out critical allies who challenge and uplift them. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and taking bold steps forward. “Don’t seek perfection, but be brave,” he advises, urging future leaders to embrace risks and carve their own paths toward excellence.

A Legacy of Excellence and Advocacy

Dr. Jacob Easley II’s impact on the field of education is profound and far-reaching. His unwavering dedication to policy reform, educator preparation, and student success exemplifies Black excellence and leadership. As we celebrate his achievements, we recognize his contributions to shaping a more just and effective educational system for generations to come.

Elation Communications is honored to spotlight Dr. Easley as part of our Black History Month 2025 series, celebrating those who are making history today.