Michael R. Hillis

Michael R. Hillis serves as Dean and Professor at California Lutheran University's Graduate School of Education, bringing extensive leadership in teacher education accreditation and multicultural scholarship. With 18 years of administrative experience at Pacific Lutheran University and prior faculty roles at East Tennessee State University, he shapes national education policy through prominent organizational leadership.

Education

• Ph.D. from University of Washington

Research Interests

Dr. Hillis investigates how mimetic theory informs educational leadership practices while critically examining moral assumptions within multicultural curricula. His scholarship bridges theoretical frameworks with practical community partnership development, emphasizing ethical dimensions of schooling through internationally validated research conducted during Fulbright engagements in Norway and study programs in Trinidad and Tobago.

Scientific Awards

• Fulbright Scholar (2000-2001)
• Thrivent Fellow

Advising and Grants

He secured funding for international study initiatives including dual-term Site Director appointments in Trinidad and Tobago (2008, 2014). Through sustained accreditation leadership as NCATE/CAEP Board of Examiners member and California state reviewer, he influences systemic educational standards while advancing policy through California's Committee on Accreditation where he serves following 2019 election and 2023 re-election.