Faculty member Akane Zusho, Ph.D. has recently been appointed as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Experimental Education (JXE). JXE is a highly regarded journal that publishes articles focused on expanding the understanding of how instructional, motivational, and social processes affect education outcomes for all students in the United States and beyond. In deciding to pursue this role and further her impact on educational psychology, Zusho stated:
“JXE has a longstanding reputation for publishing high-quality research, and I saw this as an opportunity to further enhance the journal’s impact by bringing in fresh perspectives and focusing on equity-driven research. I also felt that, in this position, I could help cultivate a supportive and constructive review process, one that encourages rigorous yet empathetic feedback, particularly for junior scholars and those doing critical work that challenges the status quo.”
Fordham has played a significant role in Zusho’s academic development and decision to pursue the role, as she notes:
“My work —particularly through the Center for Community Engaged Learning/Bronx Research Institute for Community Solutions (BRICS)—has deepened my commitment to community engagement and using research as a tool for social change. Fordham urges its community to ‘live the mission,’ and through this, I’ve come to realize that the university’s values align deeply with my own. Being part of an institution that emphasizes justice, equity, and community has inspired me to pursue leadership roles like this one. It has provided me with a supportive environment to grow as both a scholar and an advocate, which ultimately pushed me to step into this position.”
Zusho’s vision for JXE is deeply rooted in Jesuit beliefs, drawing on her work that highlights education as a paradigm that balances rigor with love, freedom, and joy. Zusho aims to lead JXE in promoting a holistic approach to learning, publishing research that examines not only learning processes, but also how education can contribute to a more equitable society through public engagement and policy shaping. With Zusho as Editor-in-Chief, JXE will be prioritizing research that reflects this all-inclusive view of education, hoping to prepare students in becoming engaged citizens that advocate for themselves and others with empathy, creativity, and critical awareness.
This content was contributed by Leah McKirgan.
