Educational studies students are introduced to learning theory and the social foundations of education, and they enjoy experiential learning experiences in diverse settings through course placements and required summer internships. Four Denison educational studies students highlight these varied experiences and achievements.
Akari Hayashi ’27, Fellow at Turku University, Finland
When Akari Hayashi ’27 heard about a study abroad program in Finland designed specifically for educational studies majors, “I could not stop grinning.”
Associate Professor Emily Nemeth encouraged Hayashi to “step out of her comfort zone” and apply for the program. Soon, she will travel to Turku, Finland, to see firsthand how to support students learning to speak English as a second or third language.
At Turku University’s teacher training school, teachers will mentor her while she engages with students as an English language assistant.
“I’m excited to immerse myself in Finnish education systems and learn how (they) work in enhancing students’ learning, growth, and enrichment,” said Hayashi.
In addition to working with students, Hayashi will take master’s courses on educational sociology and philosophy, as well as comparative and international education.
“I became deeply interested in educational studies through my academic journey at Denison,” she said.
Lucy Morris ’26, Portrait of a School Teacher
Educational studies major Lucy Morris learned about the history of queerness in one of her classes, LGBTQ+ Identities In and Beyond the Classroom. Morris reflected on her learning:
One of the projects we did in this class was to create a Portrait of a Schoolworker, which included interviews and discussions with current school personnel about safety and surveillance. Through these conversations and further research, I was able to get a glimpse into the many challenges queer students and teachers have faced and continue to face with the ever changing laws and policies surrounding queer issues in school.
Through my essay, “Walking a Tightrope,” I examine how new policies have influenced the way queer issues are discussed, or not discussed, in schools across the country. The conversations highlighted in this essay include stories of success and security for LGBTQ identifying people in educational settings, but many discussions of surveillance and restriction.
“Walking a Tightrope” won the Vince Engel Essay Contest, sponsored by the Denison Queer Studies Program. All Denison students are invited to enter the nonfiction essay competition with essays that highlight queer themes, experiences, and histories.
The inspiration behind this award comes from the life and work of Vince Engel, who used skills learned as a U.S. Navy corpsman to comfort patients during the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Gabe Donnelly ’25, President’s Medalist
Educational studies minor Gabe Donnelly ’25 was one of only 10 Denison seniors awarded the President’s Medal in 2025, the highest recognition Denison bestows on students. Donnelly’s citation noted his commitment to educational studies:
“Your nominators in the Department of History describe you as a student who ‘elevates the potential learning of your classmates through preparation, deep thinking, and your openness to new ideas and perspectives … You engage deeply with complicated questions, listen, learn from others, and to help others learn in the process … These [qualities] make your desire to become a teacher of history and of music feel so right.’
“Your nominators in the Department of Music share that you are ‘an incredibly talented student whose work demonstrates an acute intellect coupled with care for your peers.’ You are a cornerstone of vocal music at Denison. Our vocal ensembles will be at a loss next year because, as our choir director notes, ‘20% of the sound you hear is Gabe.’ A powerful baritone, you were selected as co-winner of this year’s concerto-aria competition. Your voice is foundational to this generation of Denison Hilltoppers, for whom you serve as the music director. You also support our community through your work with Planned Parenthood and your role as a community advisor. For the power of your voice and the depth of your engagement across campus, Denison awards you the President’s Medal.”
Susannah Snell ’26, Inducted into Phi Beta Kappa
Educational Studies major Susannah Snell ’26 is one of only eight students in the Class of 2026 to be selected as juniors for Phi Beta Kappa at Denison.
Since her first semester, when she took The U.S. Education System course, Snell has found an academic home in the Department of Educational Studies. Thought-provoking discussions with peers, meaningful feedback on assignments, and close faculty mentorship have sharpened her critical thinking and writing skills.
Additionally, Snell has enjoyed advancing her intellectual and leadership skills while conducting independent Summer Research with Assistant Professor Andrew Frankel and in her role as a fellow with the educational studies department.
A double major in educational studies and communication, Snell looks forward to continuing her academic pursuits in her senior year as a fellow for each department. She plans to write a senior educational studies research thesis as she prepares for graduate school and a career in education.
More about Phi Beta Kappa
Founded in 1776, the Phi Beta Kappa academic honors society celebrates intellectual rigor, freedom of inquiry, and the pursuit of knowledge within the liberal arts and sciences. Receiving Phi Beta Kappa is a rare honor, as only about 10 percent of [chapter universities] arts and sciences graduates are selected to join, typically at the end of their senior year.
