Double doctorates, double the impact
Kim and Fred Darden earn doctoral degrees together at UHCL’s Fall Commencement
Husband and wife Kim and Fred Darden are celebrating an extraordinary achievement: they will both receive their doctoral degrees at the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) fall commencement ceremony. Kim will earn her Doctorate in Educational Leadership (EDLS), while Fred will receive his Doctorate in Education in Curriculum and Instruction (EDCI).
The couple’s journey to this milestone was a collaborative decision made after thoughtful reflection and encouragement. Kim, a seasoned principal with over 25 years of experience in education, was initially unsure if it was the right time to pursue a doctorate. However, after a conversation with EDLS Director Dr. Antonio Corrales at UH-Clear Lake, she was inspired to move forward with her goal of earning a terminal degree. Fred, who has always been motivated by a desire to give back to young people, was equally ready to take on the challenge.
“A colleague recommended UHCL to me during the COVID-19 pandemic, and I wasn’t sure it was the right time,” Kim shared. “But when I reached out to Dr. Corrales, he encouraged Fred and me to apply. It felt like the right time for us to move forward, especially as empty nesters.”
Fred added, “We were both at a point in life where it made sense to pursue this together. We could support each other while focusing on our shared dream.”
The Dardens' decision to attend UHCL was also influenced by its convenient Pearland location, located just minutes from their home.
“The convenience of the Pearland location made it even easier to commit to the program,” Fred said. “It’s only five minutes from home, which was a huge factor in our ability to stay consistent and finish strong.”
Throughout their doctoral journey, the couple worked together to navigate the academic challenges, with a shared understanding of the rigorous demands of the program. Kim and Fred emphasized the strength of their partnership: “The best part was being in the same class. But the hardest part was being in different classes. There was a lot of grace, mercy, and help. It made everything easier to handle when we knew we were in it together.”
The couple also credited UHCL’s faculty for their support and guidance throughout the program, highlighting how they prepared them for success. They honed several skills in their courses such as giving presentations, effective communication strategies, academic research, and leadership skills. Kim spoke highly of Dr. Jennifer Grace, her dissertation chair, who played an instrumental role in keeping her focused and grounded throughout her academic journey.
“Dr. Grace was incredible. She encouraged me and challenged me, and I know I will continue to rely on her guidance in the future,” Kim said. “Additionally, Dr. Renée Lastrapes, Dr. Jana Willis, and Dr. Corrales were all invaluable professors in helping us navigate tough courses, sharpening our writing, understanding the dissertation components, and were encouraging from day one.”
Fred echoed Kim’s sentiments, commending Dr. Omah Williams-Duncan, his dissertation chair, for her academic guidance and personal care, Dr. Washington, his off-campus committee chair, Dr. Lastrapes, and Dr. Grace.
“Dr. Duncan not only helped me with my academic work but also took an interest in my health,” Fred said. “She gave me nutritional advice that helped balance my blood pressure and I am forever grateful for that,” he explained. "Dr. Grace guided me in structuring my qualitative research, Dr. Lastrapes was my quantitative hero, and Dr. Washington’s dissertation served as the foundation for my study."
Both Kim and Fred agreed that the friendships they formed during the program with professors and classmates will last a lifetime. They said the sense of community developed during the ‘unknown’ caused by the pandemic made them both feel safe and supported. Furthermore, they stressed the importance of communication, balance, and understanding when pursuing a program of this caliber, especially for those with family obligations.
The right timing and being on the same page with your loved ones is important. Additionally, the support we received from our professors was outstanding. They communicated expectations, provided guidance, and knew when to push us. It made the journey much easier. The program built us up.
Although Kim and Fred come from different fields — education and engineering — they share a common goal: positively impacting young people. Kim has always believed that creating an environment where all minds can grow is the greatest gift she can give the world. For Fred, the motivation to pursue his doctorate stemmed from his desire to impact young people’s futures, particularly those from underrepresented communities in STEM fields.
Kim is using her research to broaden her influence and enhance her ability to support public schools, including addressing the needs of students who struggle with behavioral challenges. She is focused on developing effective strategies for promoting positive behavior and fostering change. Fred is using his research to increase the participation of underrepresented minorities in STEM fields, seeking ways to improve outcomes for these students and set a foundation for their success.
“Education is constantly evolving, and we need trailblazers who are willing to adapt and grow with it,” Kim said. “At the heart of what we do as educators is the desire to see success in others. That’s the foundation for everything.”
Kim and Fred’s story showcases the power of perseverance, collaboration, and a shared commitment to positively impacting education. Their achievement is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when two people unite to pursue their dreams — individually and as a team. As they prepare to graduate, they are already looking ahead to the impact they will continue to make on the next generation of students.
“Never stop learning,” Fred said. “That’s the key. Education is a journey, and ‘degrees increase your ability to serve’.”
For more information about the College of Education’s doctoral programs, visit www.uhcl.edu/education/departments/. For information about the fall 2024 commencement ceremony visit, www.uhcl.edu/academics/commencement/.
