This research award is awarded to students enrolled in course work in the Department of Educational Administration and Foundations (EAF) and was named in the spirit of Barbara Sizemore and her accomplishments in the field of education.
Sizemore was a pioneering educator and transformative administrator whose scholarly endeavors have made significant contributions to raising awareness for the benefit of all students, particularly those from historically minoritized groups. Her work and body of knowledge critically shifted educational discourse about achievement and urban educational research.
Her passion and life’s work emanated from the fundamental belief that education and schooling that benefits the individual and society must reflect the values of social justice in its policies, practices and mindsets. This award recognizes an EAF student whose scholarship has had a substantial impact on the development and achievement of underrepresented populations.
The following two alumni educators were recognized with the award in 2016 and 2017. The newest honoree will be announced at the EAF on the Red Carpet Spring Gala on Saturday, May 5, at the DoubleTree Hotel.
2016 award recipient Daniel McCloud, Ph.D. ’16, is an assistant director of academic advisement at the University of Illinois’ College of Medicine at Peoria. His dissertation is titled Racial Stereotype Threat: A Critical Race Perspective.
2017 award recipient Christa Platt, M.S. ’09, is a coordinator of targeted retention services for University College at Illinois State University. Her dissertation is titled Black Minds Matter: The Academic Identity of First Year African American STEM Students.
