Jonathan J. O'Brien

Jonathan J. O'Brien is a Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership within the College of Education at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). He teaches in both the master’s and doctoral programs, offering courses in law and ethics, leadership and management, counseling the adult learner, research methodologies, and professional development seminars. He guides graduate students in exploring complex issues in higher education and student affairs.

Education:

• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, UC Irvine & CSU Long Beach
• MS in College Student Personnel Administration, Central Missouri State University
• BA in English, California State University, Long Beach

Dr. O'Brien’s research centers on moral development, ethical leadership, and dispositional competencies in student affairs, particularly under conditions of political polarization. His work explores how educational leaders navigate ethical dilemmas, develop moral orientations, and build credibility in contested environments. He is deeply engaged in understanding the ethical preparation of student affairs professionals and the emotional toll of moral suffering in the field.

His recent publications and presentations reveal a strong focus on ethical frameworks, ACPA/NASPA competencies, and the development of practitioner-focused ethical codes. The articles span themes such as moral positionality, ethical mindfulness, and the integration of personal values in leadership. His research often employs qualitative and mixed-methods approaches, contributing to both theoretical and applied knowledge in higher education.

Professional Leadership and Awards:

• Co-Director, President & Provost’s Leadership Fellows Program, CSULB (2024–present)
• Chair, ACPA Ethics Task Force (2024–present)
• Secretary-Treasurer, Moral Development and Education SIG, AERA (2021–2024)
• Senator, College of Education Academic Senate (2020–2023)
• Board Member, ACPA Commission for Professional Preparation (2019–2021)
• Coordinator, Student Development in Higher Education M.S. Program (2009–2016)

Dr. O'Brien advises graduate students and contributes to program evaluation, curriculum development, and national professional associations. He has led initiatives to revise ethical standards in student affairs and develop self-assessment tools for moral orientation. His work bridges scholarship and practice, aiming to foster human flourishing in higher education. He is actively involved in committees at the department, college, and university levels.

Labs and Research Teams: While no formal lab is mentioned, Dr. O'Brien leads research projects on moral orientation assessment and ethical leadership in polarized environments. He collaborates with national teams through ACPA and AERA, and supervises graduate research in the Educational Leadership and Student Development in Higher Education programs.