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.
She is deeply dedicated to preparing and supporting the next generation of leaders, equipping them to foster and sustain anti-racist school cultures and lead efforts that advance equity and social justice in education. Dr. Tabron explores four key areas of educational leadership: (a) leadership practices that promote college readiness and access for marginalized students; (b) social justice in leadership preparation; (c) the impact of educational policies on equity and access; and (d) how leaders' data use shapes educational practices and decision-making. Using critical methodologies such as critical policy analysis, QuantCrit, and critical qualitative inquiry, Dr. Tabron collaborates with educators and communities to examine how policies, practices, and data use shape access, experiences, and opportunities for historically marginalized students in PK-12 schools.
In addition to her academic research, Dr. Tabron is committed to community-engaged scholarship, working closely with schools, districts, and community organizations to translate research into practical strategies for systemic change. Her research amplifies the voices of those often overlooked in educational settings and informs policy and leadership practices that aim to dismantle systemic barriers and foster joy and justice in education.
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.
She is deeply dedicated to preparing and supporting the next generation of leaders, equipping them to foster and sustain anti-racist school cultures and lead efforts that advance equity and social justice in education. Dr. Tabron explores four key areas of educational leadership: (a) leadership practices that promote college readiness and access for marginalized students; (b) social justice in leadership preparation; (c) the impact of educational policies on equity and access; and (d) how leaders' data use shapes educational practices and decision-making. Using critical methodologies such as critical policy analysis, QuantCrit, and critical qualitative inquiry, Dr. Tabron collaborates with educators and communities to examine how policies, practices, and data use shape access, experiences, and opportunities for historically marginalized students in PK-12 schools.
In addition to her academic research, Dr. Tabron is committed to community-engaged scholarship, working closely with schools, districts, and community organizations to translate research into practical strategies for systemic change. Her research amplifies the voices of those often overlooked in educational settings and informs policy and leadership practices that aim to dismantle systemic barriers and foster joy and justice in education.
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