Dr. Joseph P. Masgai Named to U.S. Department of Education School Ambassador Fellowship Program

Dr. Joseph P. Masgai, '17, adjunct professor in the College of Education's Educational Leadership program was selected to be a resident ambassador in the U.S. Department of Education School Ambassador Fellowship Program for the 2020-2021 school year.

Out of a pool of 500 applicants from across the United States, Dr. Masgai was chosen as one of only 35 to participate in a Skype interview and one of only 15 to be invited as a finalist to interview in a full-day process in Washington, D.C. Dr. Masgai was selected as one of two resident ambassadors who will spend the year working with the U.S. Department of Education. 

The mission of the School Ambassador Fellowship is designed to improve education for students by involving educators in the development and implementation of national education policy. Selected participants for the Washington Fellowship serve as full-time Federal employees in Washington, D.C. for one school year. Fellows are placed in offices throughout the Department of Education to work on education programs and policy matters. They contribute valuable school and classroom-level knowledge and perspective to the Department, greatly increase their own knowledge and understanding of Federal education policies and programs, and collaborate to provide specific outreach to other teachers. 

According to the program decision, "Washington Fellows gain in-depth knowledge of Department initiatives; provide their perspectives to senior staff; share relevant school and classroom experiences with internal and external audiences; facilitate discussion among educators about policy in D.C. and in areas around the country as necessary; and plan and implement various convenings and events for local educators and others on behalf of the Department.”

"Dr. Masgai is an exemplary leader, who I am sure will use his talents and knowledge to fulfill this post with distinction.  Our faculty, students, and alumni are proud of him.  We wish nothing but all the best for Dr. Masgai and his family during this wonderful opportunity,' said Dr. Craig Hochebin, associate professor of Lehigh's Educational Leadership program.