College of Education’s Elise J. Cain named 2024 Emerging Scholar-Designee
Elise J. Cain, Ph.D., from Georgia Southern University's College of Education (COE), has been named a 2024-2026 American College Personnel Association (ACPA) Emerging Scholar–Designee.
“Dr. Cain has relentless dedication and unmatched energy to achieve her research goals,” said Meca Williams-Johnson, Ph.D., interim co-dean of the COE. “We are proud of her accomplishments and the recognition she is receiving for this important work.”
Cain, who is an assistant professor of leadership, technology and human development, will serve a two-year term for the ACPA. When she completes the research and scholarly leadership commitment requirements as an Emerging Scholar–Designee, she will be recognized as an Emerging Scholar at the 2026 ACPA Convention.
“As a member of ACPA since the beginning of my professional career, I have desired to become a part of this prestigious program,” said Cain. “Knowing that the Senior Scholars, who are senior members of the profession who have made exemplary and sustained contributions to the field, recognized my current scholarly accomplishments and see my potential for the future is exhilarating. I am humbled to receive this honor."
Cain is committed to conducting a proposed research project, "A Narrative Inquiry Exploring How Rural College Students Perceive and Experience Their Rural and Other Social Identities," as part of the award.
The Emerging Scholars Program is dedicated to providing support, encouragement and recognition to early-career professionals who are making significant contributions to the field of student affairs and higher education scholarship. These individuals are actively engaged in research initiatives aligned with the mission, interests and strategic goals of ACPA. ACPA, headquartered in Washington, D.C., at the National Center for Higher Education, stands as the preeminent comprehensive association for student affairs, committed to advancing the field and fostering a lifelong journey of learning and discovery for students.