Student Spotlight: Edward Brandt

If you've spent any time around Hunterdon Central Regional High School over the years, there's a good chance you've met Edward Brandt. He’s been the principal there for the last five years, but his career in education goes back much longer.

Brandt started out as a high school math teacher in New Jersey in the early '90s. Over the next three decades, he moved into leadership roles, serving as a middle school principal and a math supervisor before leading Hunterdon Central. His dedication was recognized last year through an Exemplary Educator Award by the New Jersey State Department of Education.

So, what made this busy principal decide to become a student again? Brandt wanted a program that would give him real, practical tools to help him lead his school today, while also setting him up for the future. When he was looking at doctorate programs, Lehigh stood out not just because it’s close to home, but because the program actually made sense for his day job. 

Brandt is currently a doctoral candidate in the COE's Teaching, Learning and Technology (TLT) program. 

He’s called the Lehigh Valley home since 1997, where he lives with his wife and three kids. When he finally gets some downtime, you’ll probably find Brandt out and about grabbing dinner in Bethlehem or Easton. He’s also a huge fan of live music and local sports, regularly catching shows at Musikfest, the PPL Center, or the State Theater. And if you head to Dorney Park, you might just see him riding the roller coasters.

When asked why he’s spent his career in schools, Brandt points to the future. "I think a strong, dynamic, and ever-improving education system is crucial for our youth to learn and grow into positively contributing members of society."