Jean Ferguson Ruffin

Dr. Jean Ferguson Ruffin is an Assistant Professor and Assistant Chair in the Department of Leadership, Research, and School Improvement at the University of West Georgia's College of Education. She holds an Ed.D. in School Improvement (2018) and an Ed.S. in Education Administration (2010) from the same institution, along with a J.D. (2001) and B.A. in English (1998). Her research focuses on culturally proficient leadership and school improvement strategies. Dr. Ruffin has extensive experience in educational leadership roles, including serving as associate school superintendent for the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice and working as a literacy coach with the Southern Regional Education Board.

Her teaching portfolio includes courses such as School Law and Policy, Data-Driven School Improvement, and Culturally Proficient Leadership. She consistently teaches graduate-level courses emphasizing equity, organizational theories in school improvement, and doctoral research methodologies. Dr. Ruffin's professional background spans legal practice, K-12 education administration, and higher education, providing her with a unique interdisciplinary perspective.

• Education:
  • B.A., English, Tuskegee University, 1998
  • J.D., Mercer University, 2001
  • Ed.S., Education Administration, University of West Georgia, 2010
  • Ed.D., School Improvement, University of West Georgia, 2018
• Recent Professional Activities:
  • Teaching over 20 course sections annually from 2021-2025
  • Leading doctoral research seminars (EDSI-9998)
  • Developing curricula focused on equity and culturally responsive leadership

Her publications explore leadership development, pandemic-era educational challenges, and systemic inequities in schooling. Dr. Ruffin's work bridges legal, administrative, and pedagogical dimensions of educational leadership.