معرفی
Dr. Leah Zuidema serves as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Dordt University, where she shapes academic programs, leads strategic planning initiatives, and promotes faculty excellence. With a strong background in English education and composition-rhetoric, she has been instrumental in developing new graduate and online programs while ensuring the integration of faith and learning across the institution.
Dr. Zuidema earned her Ph.D. in Critical Studies in the Teaching of English from Michigan State University, following an M.A. in the same field and a B.A. in English from Calvin College. She also holds an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Harvard Kennedy School (2020-2024) and completed the Academic Leadership Academy at Pennsylvania State University.
Her research focuses on teacher education and composition-rhetoric, particularly examining faculty as teacher-writers and administrators as literacy sponsors. Zuidema's scholarly work demonstrates consistent exploration of how Christian faith intersects with educational practice, emphasizing the importance of developing thoughtful, reflective educators who integrate their faith with professional practice.
Her publications reveal a strong emphasis on teacher development, writing pedagogy, and the integration of faith in educational contexts. Across her work, Zuidema consistently addresses themes of professional identity, reflective practice, and the theological dimensions of teaching and learning in Christian educational settings.
- Fulbright Scholar for the U.S.–France International Education Administrators Program (2018)
- President of National Council of Teachers of English (2019-2020)
- Civil Rights Investigator Certification, Levels I & II, ATIXA
As Vice President for Academic Affairs, Zuidema advises faculty on scholarly development and serves as an administration liaison for the Board of Trustees. Her leadership extends to faculty mentoring and supporting innovation across academic departments. She has delivered numerous invited keynotes and workshops at national conferences, addressing topics ranging from strategic leadership to deep reading practices in distracted times. Her work demonstrates a commitment to cultivating educational environments where faith, scholarship, and professional growth intersect meaningfully.
