Julia Monroe Takes the Helm of the Master of Arts in Teaching Program

We are excited to welcome Mrs. Julia Monroe as the new Program Director for the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program at Southern Nazarene University (SNU). With her extensive background in both K-12 education and higher education, Julia brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to this important role. As we look forward to the future of the MAT program under her leadership, it is clear that her vision and dedication to education will have a significant impact on the lives of many aspiring teachers.

A Journey in Education

Mrs. Monroe's educational journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Family Studies and Gerontology from Southern Nazarene University. This foundation provided her with a unique perspective on human development and family dynamics—insights that she later carried into her teaching career. Julia continued her academic pursuits by earning a Master of Education in Adult and Higher Education from the University of Central Oklahoma. Currently, she is working toward her Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership at SNU, with an anticipated graduation date of December 2025.

Her experience as an educator spans 12 years in K-12 public schools, where she was instrumental in shaping young minds and providing them with the tools they needed to succeed. Julia joined SNU as an enrollment counselor in 2021, where her expertise in education was invaluable in helping students navigate their educational journeys. Her blend of practical classroom experience and deep understanding of higher education makes her an exceptional fit to lead the MAT program at SNU.

A New Direction for the Master of Arts in Teaching Program

The MAT program at Southern Nazarene University is designed to meet the needs of emergency and alternatively certified teachers who wish to complete the requirements for standard certification while earning a graduate degree. This is a unique opportunity for teachers who are passionate about education but may not have followed the traditional certification route. Under Mrs. Monroe's leadership, the MAT program will continue to offer a comprehensive pathway that not only strengthens teaching abilities but also prepares educators for a variety of roles in the field of education.

Julia’s vision for the MAT program is rooted in her belief that education is a powerful tool for personal and societal transformation. As a passionate advocate for teaching and learning, she emphasizes the importance of developing strong classroom leadership. Classroom management, she believes, is the foundation of effective teaching. "Effective classroom management creates a culture of safety, respect, and value for all students," she says. This focus on creating positive, supportive learning environments is something that Julia aims to instill in every educator who comes through the MAT program.

Skills for Success

One of Julia's core values is intrinsic motivation—a quality that has driven her own educational and professional success. She encourages MAT students to cultivate self-discipline, take initiative, and develop strong time-management skills. These qualities are essential for educators who juggle the demands of the classroom with their own professional development.

"Be resolute, have a solid support system, and practice self-care," Julia advises. She recognizes the challenges that teachers face, especially those who are balancing work and further education. Her personal experiences as a teacher and lifelong learner give her unique insight into the challenges and rewards of the teaching profession.

Julia also encourages MAT students to lean into their passion for education and use it as a source of strength. "Education is my passion, and I have a deep love of teaching and learning," she shares. "As an educator, I have the opportunity to positively impact students' lives by helping them grow intellectually and personally." This mindset is one that Julia hopes to foster in the MAT program, as she helps teachers grow into leaders who can make a difference in their students' lives.

A Christian Worldview

As a graduate of SNU herself, Julia understands the importance of integrating Christian principles into the MAT program. She believes that education can be a powerful tool to impact the world for Christ by incorporating Biblical principles into instructional strategies that promote a Christian worldview.

"Christian educators have the unique opportunity to create a profound societal difference," Julia says. "By discipling and mentoring students, we can equip them with a Christian perspective, enabling them to become salt and light in the world." Julia's vision for the MAT program is one that aligns with the mission of Southern Nazarene University—to prepare students not just for professional success, but to make a positive impact on the world.

Looking Ahead

The future of the MAT program is bright with Julia Monroe at the helm. Her leadership will undoubtedly help shape the next generation of teachers who are not only equipped with the skills they need to excel in the classroom but also empowered to make a difference in the world.

In addition to her work in the MAT program, Julia is a lifelong learner who stays connected to the latest trends in education. She is a fan of Brene Brown’s podcasts, which often explore topics related to leadership, vulnerability, and resilience—qualities that are critical for educators. Her commitment to both personal and professional growth sets an inspiring example for the students she leads.

Southern Nazarene University is excited about the future of the MAT program under Julia's direction. We are confident that her passion for education, deep understanding of classroom dynamics, and commitment to Christian principles will have a lasting impact on the program and the many teachers who will benefit from her leadership. We look forward to seeing all that Mrs. Monroe will accomplish in this new role and are grateful for the dedication she brings to the SNU community.