Cassie Barnhardt

Cassie Barnhardt is a distinguished Senior Research Fellow in Social and Education Policy and serves as an Associate Professor in the College of Education at the University of Iowa. Her academic journey is marked by a profound dedication to understanding and enhancing civic and public engagement within higher education. Barnhardt's research primarily focuses on how college students develop a sense of social responsibility and the role universities play in nurturing democracy and civic life. Throughout her career, Barnhardt has made significant contributions to the academic community, with her work being featured in numerous esteemed journals. She has also shared her insights through contributions to the American Council on Education's blog, where she discusses the intersection of education policy and civic engagement. Her research endeavors have been generously supported by prestigious organizations such as the John Templeton Foundation, the Carnegie Corporation of New York, and DIKU, underscoring the impact and relevance of her work. In the classroom, Barnhardt is known for her engaging and thought-provoking teaching style. She offers graduate courses that delve into higher education administration, policy, and organizational behavior and management. Her courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and influence the complex landscape of higher education. Barnhardt's commitment to global education is exemplified by her experience as a Fulbright Scholar in 2019, where she traveled to the Republic of Kosovo. During her time there, she provided invaluable advice to the Ministry of Education's Higher Education department, helping to shape policies and practices that promote educational excellence and civic engagement. Her work continues to inspire both students and colleagues, as she remains at the forefront of research and practice in the field of higher education. Barnhardt's dedication to fostering civic engagement and social responsibility among students is a testament to her belief in the transformative power of education.