Lolita A. Tabron
Associate Professor
Professional Biography
Dr. Lolita A. Tabron is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (ELPS) at the Morgridge College of Education, University of Denver, and a faculty affiliate at both the Interdisciplinary Research Institute for the Study of (In)Equality (IRISE) and the Scrivner Institute of Public Policy. Dr. Tabron is a nationally recognized scholar in PreK-12 educational leadership and policy, with expertise in advancing racial justice through critical policy analysis and innovative research methodologies.
Her research critically examines how educational laws, policies, and leadership practices shape access, opportunities, and outcomes for historically marginalized groups, with a particular focus on the intersecting identities of Students of Color. Using a P-20 lens, her work addresses three critical areas in educational leadership: (a) college access and readiness; (b) social justice and equity in leadership preparation; and (c) the impact of educational policies on leadership practices, student experiences, and educational outcomes. Through methodologies such as critical policy analysis, QuantCrit, and critical qualitative inquiry, she uncovers systemic inequities and translates complex findings into actionable strategies for fostering anti-racist school cultures and dismantling barriers across the educational continuum.
In addition to her academic research, Dr. Tabron is deeply committed to community-engaged scholarship, partnering with schools, districts, and community organizations to translate research into practice and drive systemic change. Her research not only amplifies the voices of those often overlooked in educational settings but also informs public policy and leadership practices that aim to dismantle systemic barriers and foster joy and justice across the educational spectrum.
Dr. Tabron’s contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Jack C. Culbertson Early Career Award from the University Council of Education Administration and the Review of Research Award from the American Educational Research Association. Additionally, Dr. Tabron has been repeatedly recognized by the University of Denver for her excellence and contribution to impactful teaching and mentoring.
Her research critically examines how educational laws, policies, and leadership practices shape access, opportunities, and outcomes for historically marginalized groups, with a particular focus on the intersecting identities of Students of Color. Using a P-20 lens, her work addresses three critical areas in educational leadership: (a) college access and readiness; (b) social justice and equity in leadership preparation; and (c) the impact of educational policies on leadership practices, student experiences, and educational outcomes. Through methodologies such as critical policy analysis, QuantCrit, and critical qualitative inquiry, she uncovers systemic inequities and translates complex findings into actionable strategies for fostering anti-racist school cultures and dismantling barriers across the educational continuum.
In addition to her academic research, Dr. Tabron is deeply committed to community-engaged scholarship, partnering with schools, districts, and community organizations to translate research into practice and drive systemic change. Her research not only amplifies the voices of those often overlooked in educational settings but also informs public policy and leadership practices that aim to dismantle systemic barriers and foster joy and justice across the educational spectrum.
Dr. Tabron’s contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Jack C. Culbertson Early Career Award from the University Council of Education Administration and the Review of Research Award from the American Educational Research Association. Additionally, Dr. Tabron has been repeatedly recognized by the University of Denver for her excellence and contribution to impactful teaching and mentoring.
Areas of Research
Educational Leadership
Critical Policy Analysis
Educational Equity and Social Justice
racial justice
PK-12 Education
Access to Higher Education
Critical Quantitative Inquiry
Critical Qualitative Inquiry
Mixed-Methods Research
Community-Engaged Scholarship
Students of Color
Systemic Barriers in Education