Tulane Teaching and Learning

The Cowen Institute is dedicated to equipping leaders and practitioners with the skills and resources to promote educational and postsecondary success among New Orleans students. As part of this mission, we teach Tulane undergraduate and graduate students about the local education system, public education, teaching practices, and educational leadership.

In collaboration with Tulane’s School of Professional Advancement’s Education programs, the Education Research Alliance/Reach, the Center for Public Service, and other Tulane departments, we deliver courses on New Orleans’ education system and facilitate service-learning opportunities in public schools across the city. Each year, Dr. Amanda Kruger Hill, Executive Director of the Cowen Institute, teaches two Education in a Diverse Society courses for undergraduates. These courses include a service-learning component, where over 50 students engage in mentorship roles within New Orleans public schools each year.

Additionally, Dr. Hill oversees the Equity-Centered Educational Leadership specialization within the School of Professional Advancement’s Master’s in Education program, which aims to prepare graduates for success in educational leadership roles.

Our Policy Director and Executive Director also provides multiple presentations each year on the state of public education in New Orleans, engaging Tulane students and the community in critical conversations. Annually, over 500 Tulane students engage with Cowen Institute publications as part of their coursework, deepening their understanding of educational issues and practices in the New Orleans area.

To request a presentation on our poll findings or New Orleans education system, please email vrossmei@tulane.edu.