Lee Turner

Lee Turner is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Human Development at Pacific Oaks College, where she has taught since the 1990s, primarily in online graduate programs. She teaches courses such as Advanced Leadership, Social and Political Context, and supports thesis development for graduate students.

Education:

• Ed.D. in Education, Mills College, Oakland, CA (2002)
• M.A. in Education, Mills College, Oakland, CA (1984)
• B.A. in Cultural Geography, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, B.C., Canada (1971)

Dr. Turner's research and professional work centers on emergent and transformational leadership, particularly in early childhood education and underserved communities. Her expertise spans anti-bias curriculum, diversity, social justice, poverty, and mixed methods research. She emphasizes reflective mentoring and systems change through collaborative leadership across public and private sectors.

Her scholarly publications focus on mentoring and clinical supervision in educational settings, reflecting a long-standing commitment to leadership development and teacher growth. The themes across her work include equity, program development, and adult learning in educational contexts.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• West Ed PITC Trainer of Trainers
• Founder, Grantland L. Johnson Institute of Leadership Development (2016)

Dr. Turner has advised graduate students in thesis development and has been instrumental in nonprofit leadership, particularly through her work with early childhood programs and community development. She served as Head Start/Early Head Start Director for The Spanish Speaking Unity Council (1990–2004) and as Executive Director of Ala Costa Center. She is currently a Commissioner for First Five Sacramento County, focusing on child and family well-being.

She founded the Grantland L. Johnson Institute of Leadership Development, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preparing individuals from diverse and underprivileged backgrounds for public service and leadership roles across governmental and nonprofit sectors. The institute promotes cooperation, communication, and systems-level reform.