Tom J. Shields

Tom J. Shields serves as Associate Professor in both Education and Leadership Studies at the University of Richmond's School of Professional & Continuing Studies (SPCS), where he also holds the position of Program Chair for Graduate Education. Additionally, he functions as an Adjunct Instructor in Executive Education and is a Member of the SPCS Speakers Bureau. His academic career centers on educational leadership with particular expertise in school and housing segregation, changing demographics in the Richmond region, and ethical considerations for educational leaders.

Dr. Shields' academic background includes:

• B.A. in History from the University of Scranton (1990)
• M.A.T. in Secondary U.S. History and Government from Virginia Commonwealth University (1996)
• Ph.D. in Urban Policy Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University (2001)

Shields' research program critically examines the intersection of educational leadership, structural segregation, and urban policy development. His work investigates how demographic shifts impact educational systems, particularly in metropolitan Richmond, and analyzes the ethical dilemmas faced by school administrators regarding integration efforts and policy compliance. A distinctive feature of his scholarship is connecting school segregation patterns with broader housing policies, demonstrating how these systems interact to create and maintain educational inequities. His research often employs historical analysis to contextualize contemporary educational challenges, particularly regarding civil rights and representation.

Analysis of Shields' publication record reveals a consistent scholarly trajectory spanning two decades, with recent work increasingly addressing the intersection of immigration policy and educational leadership. His research maintains a strong regional focus on Richmond while addressing national educational policy concerns. Notably, his work with German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) demonstrates international engagement in leadership education through multimedia productions. The evolution of his scholarship shows progression from historical civil rights analyses to contemporary examinations of systemic educational inequities and leadership responses.

As Program Chair for Graduate Education, Shields oversees academic programming in his field and has developed significant research partnerships, including collaborations with colleagues like Genevieve Siegel-Hawley, Kara Bridges, and Kevin Cassada. His work with the University of Richmond Center for Leadership in Education, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Education, and Housing Opportunities Made Equal demonstrates engagement with community organizations to address educational and housing segregation issues. Shields' research has practical implications for school leaders navigating complex policy environments while striving for equitable educational opportunities.