ADA, Okla. — An East Central University doctoral student has been named the new superintendent of Vanoss Public Schools, marking a historic first for the university’s Doctor of Education program. Charles Hill, an ECU elementary education graduate and current student in the university’s Doctor of Education in Rural Education program, was selected from a pool of 19 candidates for the position.

Hill is the first student in ECU’s Ed.D. program to be named a superintendent while completing the degree. Hill completed his principal and superintendent certification coursework at ECU and said concepts from the doctoral program influenced both his interview performance and his approach to district leadership.

“The program’s focus on applied leadership and research-based decision-making helped prepare me for this opportunity,” Hill said. “I’m grateful for the mentorship and preparation I’ve received at ECU.”

Dr. Gerald Mihelic, associate professor and dean of ECU’s College of Education and Psychology, wrote a letter of recommendation supporting Hill’s candidacy and said the appointment reflects the program’s mission. “Charles represents the type of leader our doctoral program is designed to prepare,” Mihelic said. “His selection underscores the importance of developing leadership capacity in rural and regional 
school districts.”

East Central University’s Ed.D. program was established to address leadership needs in Oklahoma schools, with an emphasis on practical application and organizational leadership. Hill’s appointment represents an early milestone in the program’s impact across the state.

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