Charity Chandler-Cole is the CEO of Court Appointed Special Advocates, Los Angeles (CASA), where she leads a social justice organization in advocating for the rights and well-being of the most vulnerable children and families within the judicial system, orchestrating strategic initiatives and partnerships to ensure every child has access to safe, nurturing, and equitable environments that champion their potential and protect their futures.
Charity decided to enroll in LMU's Ed.D. Program because her own life has been deeply shaped by systemic injustices, and she has seen firsthand the transformative power of education grounded in social justice principles. Her motivation stems from a personal journey through environments where educational and social inequities were the norm, and a strong belief in the potential for change. The Ed.D. Program represented an opportunity for her to expand her knowledge and skills in creating equitable educational opportunities, particularly for marginalized communities.
Charity’s dissertation, "From Mandated Reporter to Community Supporter: Reimagining Schools and the Nexus to Address Intersectional Social Justice," chaired by Ernesto Colin, Ph.D., delved into redefining schools' roles from mandated reporters to community supporters, with a focus on aiding Black families and promoting intersectional social justice. Her research investigated the negative consequences of mandated reporting on marginalized groups and proposed a shift towards educators and schools acting as community allies and support hubs. Through a mixed-methods approach, the study called for systemic changes, including policy revisions and culturally responsive leadership, to combat systemic racism and better support underserved communities.
The Ed.D. Program has enriched Charity’s practice as a social justice advocate, offering deeper insights into educational disparities and arming her with strategies for impactful intervention. It has strengthened her ability to weave social justice into her professional endeavors, guiding her towards more strategic advocacy and systemic reform. Her network has grown with allies and mentors, bolstering her leadership and capacity to spearhead significant projects. On a personal level, it has invigorated her dedication to fostering equity in education, profoundly influencing how she designs and executes initiatives for the benefit of marginalized groups.