Charles ("Chuck") Lowery, Ph.D. has joined the Virginia Tech School of Education as an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. Prior to joining Virginia Tech, Lowery served as an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at The Gladys W. and David H. Patton College of Education at Ohio University. He is an affiliated faculty member at Delaware State University and Stephen F. Austin State University, where he routinely serves on dissertation committees.

Lowery brings an impressive record of scholarship, having authored or co-authored 28 peer-reviewed journal articles, 20 book chapters, and 6 edited books. He is a leading voice in rural educational leadership, particularly rural Appalachian schools, districts, and communities. Lowery’s recent research has explored the impact of the opioid crisis on schooling and rural communities in Appalachia. Lowery’s forthcoming book with Routledge addresses educational leadership and anti-racism. He has worked with the governments of Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and the UK to fund cross-cultural studies of educational leadership.

“Dr. Lowery's research has shed light on the complex relationship between school leadership and community structures. He’s a fierce advocate for rural schools and communities, and I’m eager to work with him.” said Amy Price Azano, Director of the Center for Rural Education at Virginia Tech.  “Dr. Lowery will bring a new perspective and set of experiences to our School and programs; we’re excited he’ll be joining our School,” shared Kristin Gehsmann, Director of School of Education.

Prior to joining the faculty at Ohio University, Lowery held various leadership and administrative roles in Texas including Principal, Assistant Principal, and District Title III Bilingual Coordinator, as well as a Bilingual Teacher. Lowery holds a BA in Spanish from the University of Texas at Tyler, an MS in Instructional Design and Technology from Walden University, a MEd in Educational Administration, and a PhD in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin University.

“I look forward to joining the incredible team of researchers and educators at Virginia Tech and the School of Education. It is exciting to know I’ll be working alongside so many great scholars engaged in authentic efforts to transform the field of education in meaningful and lasting ways. It is a humbling opportunity, but one I anticipate with optimism and enthusiasm,” said Lowery.

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