2004 Convention Theme

The 2004 convention theme, The Changing Face(s) of Educational Leadership: UCEA at the Crossroads, aims to capture the multiple "faces" of our field -- demographic, political, theoretical, philosophical, epistemological, etc. -- and how UCEA has changed throughout its 50 years of existence. Interestingly, the year 2004 also marks the 50th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education: the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision designed to end the systemic marginalization of children of color via school desegregation and reform-oriented public policies. In the wake of these important anniversaries, it is important that we consider what we as a field have accomplished in the last five decades, as well as the important work that needs to be done in the years to come. In the spirit of reflection and anticipation, this year's convention theme urges us to engage in serious throught regarding the impact of the Brown decision, not only on the leadership profession, but on the field of education as a whole. Since schools and institutions of higher learning are often primary battlegraounds in the fight for social justice, it should come as no surprise that UCEA was borne in the same political environment as Brown. Fifty years later, however, the political climate has shifted and the demographic and social backdrop has become increasingly diverse. This raises a number of questions for research, practice, and the preparation of school leaders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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