Madeline Hafner

Madeline Hafner is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy at the University of Utah, where she has served since 2022. As Director of the K12 EdD Program, she specializes in research-practice partnerships, organizational theory, and equity-driven leadership development. Her career spans over 30 years, including prior roles as an Assistant Professor at the University of Utah (2002-2007) and Associate Scientist at the Wisconsin Center for Education Research (2007-2022).

• Ph.D. in Educational Administration, University of Wisconsin-Madison (2000)
• M.S. in Special Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison (1996)
• B.S. in Education, Ball State University (1992)

Dr. Hafner’s research focuses on social justice education, equity in K-12 systems, and transformative leadership practices. Her work emphasizes the application of critical theory and endarkened feminist epistemology to address racial inequality and foster inclusive educational environments through organizational change and qualitative research methodologies.

Her publications explore themes such as leadership curriculum reform, critical pedagogy for justice, and trauma-informed leadership during crises, reflecting her commitment to translating research into actionable strategies for educational equity.

At the University of Utah, she teaches courses including Qualitative Research Methods I, Leadership for Equity and Social Change, and K12 EdD Capstone Proposal Seminar, shaping future educational leaders through practice-based and equity-centered instruction.