Learning & Leading Together

VCU’s Team-based Capstone Model and Developmental Approach

Authors

  • Beth E. Bukoski Virginia Commonwealth University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/ie.2026.549

Keywords:

educational doctorate, teamwork, innovation, doctoral assessment

Abstract

The Virginia Commonwealth University EdD in Leadership is designed to prepare leaders to address complex challenges in diverse organizations and communities. Since its inception in 2008, our focus has expanded from K12 educational leadership to include higher education and organizational leadership. A key innovation of the program is the Capstone project, a year-long, team- and partner-based endeavor where students tackle real-world problems of practice. Continual improvement efforts have led to three key innovations that support the ability of students to succeed in the Capstone: a one-stop Canvas site, in-person residencies, and a formative assessment, which replaces a comprehensive or qualifying exam. Through the team- and partner-based capstone, the EdD in Leadership has graduated over 400 leaders across the P20-workforce pipeline and has provided over $5.5 million in pro bono work to Capstone partner organizations.

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Published

2026-04-30

How to Cite

Bukoski, B. E. (2026). Learning & Leading Together: VCU’s Team-based Capstone Model and Developmental Approach . Impacting Education: Journal on Transforming Professional Practice, 11(2), 12–19. https://doi.org/10.5195/ie.2026.549

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2026): Reimagining the EdD: Innovations from the 2024 CPED Program of the Year Winner and Finalists

Section

Themed-Exemplary Program of the Year Finalists

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Copyright (c) 2026 Beth E. Bukoski

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