Alumni Spotlight: Danielle Felton, M.Ed. '21

Danielle Felton earned her M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Loyola University Maryland in 2021. Since graduating, Felton has become an author, publishing two books, “Teach and Go Home” and “Teach and Stay Sane” and started an educational consulting firm focused on supporting elementary classroom educators in how to simplify their workloads and manage their classrooms. She credits the diversity of her professors and their dynamic approach to teaching that contributed to a more engaging learning experience. Learn how Felton’s experience at Loyola’s School of Education shaped her into the leader she is today.

Q&A with Danielle Felton

Why did you choose your program at Loyola?

Loyola made it very easy to make the choice to enroll in their program. Their process for onboarding was seamless. I was able to handle everything required for enrollment online without ever having to travel to the university.

Loyola made it clear that they valued our time as working professionals and prioritized clear communication and efficiency.

Additionally, I’d heard many positives from other teachers who attended Loyola for their graduate degrees.

What were some of your favorite aspects about pursuing a graduate degree at Loyola?

My favorite aspects were the diversity of professors in both backgrounds and practices. I appreciated the range of educational experiences of each professor. The professors had a meaningful and dynamic approach to teaching the curriculum that contributed to a more engaging learning experience.

What do you think sets Loyola apart from other universities that offer a similar program?

I believe Loyola sets itself apart from other universities with its commitment to creating programs that consider the needs of the working professional. Needs in time management and scheduling, as well as the need for connection and community. Establishing a cohort allowed us to be able to build a sense of community, encouragement and belonging that might not have been so strong if we had not experienced starting and finishing the program together in a closed group experience. Having that sense of community increased the value of our networks with meaningful connections and provided the additional accountability and support needed to carry you through when the demands of being a full-time student and full-time educator start to get heavy.

How has your degree and experience at Loyola set you up for success in your career?

My degree expanded my career opportunities beyond the classroom.

Want to know more about how Loyola’s online Educational Leadership program can set you up for success? Find more information on the program at https://www.loyola.edu/school-education/academics/graduate/educational-leadership and follow Loyola’s School of Education for updates on X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram @loyolaeducation.