2024 Distinguished Alumni
2024 Distinguished Alumni
Loyola University Chicago School of Education proudly hosted its annual Distinguished Alumni Awards. This special evening was dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of graduates who have made profound impacts in their fields and continue to embody the values of Loyola in their work. With a strong tradition of recognizing excellence, the School of Education honors alumni who are not only advancing educational practices but also driving meaningful change in addressing social inequalities locally, nationally, and globally.
The 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients represent a diverse group of professionals whose work spans across educational psychology, research, counseling, administration, and policy. Their dedication to service, equity, and leadership highlights the transformative power of education in shaping communities and uplifting others. Please join us in congratulating these remarkable individuals for their significant achievements and their lasting contributions to both the Loyola community and society at large.
The Dean's Distinguished Alumni Award
Sophia Rodriguez, PhD
Dr. Sophia Rodriguez, PhD ’14, a graduate of the Cultural and Educational Policy Studies program, has pursued a distinguished academic career that challenges today’s educational policies to foster a more socially just academic world. Dr. Rodriguez is a tenured associate professor of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. She is also the founder and director of Immigrant Ed Next Lab, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of immigrant youth through research and advocacy. Dr. Rodriguez’s work on racial equity, urban education, and marginalized youth demonstrates a deep commitment to Jesuit ideals of social justice and care for others, making her an exceptional alumna of Loyola.
Teaching and Learning Distinguished Alumni Award
Daniel L. Zundel, BSED
Daniel Zundel, BEd ’10, a graduate of the Teaching & Learning program, has devoted his career to education and community service. Since graduating from Loyola, Zundel has served in various roles at Christ the King Jesuit College Prep, a Cristo Rey school, including six years as a full-time volunteer. He now holds the position of Senior Director of the Corporate Work Study Program. Through his student-centered approach, Zundel provides a transformative Jesuit education and builds strong relationships with his students. His dedication to serving others and embodying Loyola’s values makes him a standout alum.
School Psychology Distinguished Alumni Award
Lynne Golomb, EdD
Dr. Lynne Golomb, EdD ’80, a graduate of Loyola’s Educational Psychology program, has built a career centered on serving others. As a school psychologist, she focused on supporting the parents of young children with disabilities, advocating strongly for early intervention and ensuring families received essential services. Over 30 years at Loyola University Chicago’s school psychology program, Dr. Golomb’s expertise and mentorship played a key role in shaping the program into what it is today. Her dedication to service and improving lives is truly inspiring and deeply reflects Loyola’s Jesuit values.
Administration and Supervision Distinguished Alumni Award
Tanya Karner, EdD
Dr. Tanya Karner, EdD ’18, a graduate of the Administration and Supervision program, has dedicated her career to educational leadership and service. She is currently the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services at Community High School District 117 and also serves as an adjunct instructor in Loyola’s Educational Leadership program. In addition, Dr. Karner is a 2024-2025 Teach Plus Illinois Affinity Group Facilitator, where she helps educators lead policy and practice changes that benefit their students. Her dedication to lifelong learning and her commitment to service reflect Loyola’s Jesuit values, as she strives to create a more just world through education.
Research Methodology Distinguished Alumni Award
Jana Grabarek, PhD
Dr. Jana Grabarek, PhD ’22, a graduate of the Research Methodologies program, has contributed to numerous research projects aimed at improving education through meaningful partnerships. Her work focuses on enhancing learning and well-being in the Evanston and Chicago communities and beyond. Dr. Grabarek currently serves as the Assistant Director for Research Practice Partnership Initiatives in the Office of Community-Education Partnerships at Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy. By making research both accessible and valuable to teachers and school staff, Dr. Grabarek exemplifies professional excellence and community engagement, embodying Jesuit values and Loyola’s core mission.
Counseling Psychology Distinguished Alumni Award
Lincoln Hill, PhD
Dr. Lincoln Hill, PhD ’20, a graduate of the Counseling Psychology program, has centered his career on social justice. He currently serves as a mental health practitioner, author, presenter, and adjunct professor at Loyola. Since earning his PhD from Loyola’s School of Education, Dr. Hill founded the Center for Liberation & Wellness, a private therapy practice that provides culturally humble therapeutic services. His approach is guided by Black feminist and relational-cultural paradigms that promote health, liberation, and wellness. Through public presentations and high-quality academic work, Dr. Hill applies his research to real-world contexts, embodying the Jesuit commitment to caring for others and advocating for social justice.