For over a decade, Charles Keller has dedicated himself to education and to the mission of Renaissance Academy. He began his journey as a third and fourth-grade teacher from 2007 to 2015. While in that role, he also served as Galileo Lead and Lead of Teaching and Learning.
Recently, Keller achieved a personal and professional milestone, earning his doctorate in Educational Leadership from Youngstown State University. His dissertation, “Visible Markers and Hidden Realities: Psychological Safety and Identity Development of LGBTQIA+ Educators, " reflects not only a demanding academic endeavor but also a passion grounded in Renaissance's inclusive culture. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to be their authentic self in all aspects of their day,” Dr. Keller shared. “Teaching is a critical profession for the future of our nation, and I wanted to contribute to the existing base of information about how to create safe and healthy school environments, particularly for members of marginalized communities.”
Dr. Keller’s journey was inspired early on by a household that deeply valued education. “We were encouraged to work hard and do our best,” he recalled. His brother, who holds a Ph.D., served as a beacon and motivator. “I’ve always been impressed with his depth of knowledge and the clarity with which he expresses his ideas. I got to a point in my life where I felt like I had the time and space to pursue a terminal degree, and I wanted to bring that same type of knowledge and clarity to my field.”
Education was a constant presence in Keller’s upbringing, his father working on educational initiatives through the White House during the first Bush administration. Although the impact of education was influential and embedded during Keller’s formative years, his academic path wasn’t always linear. “My high school years were marked by inconsistent grades, and even in college, despite improvement, I struggled to find a true sense of purpose,” he admitted. It was this winding journey that shaped the educator and leader he is today.
Earning his Master’s, a certification in Teacher Leadership, and ultimately his Doctorate, gave him a renewed sense of identity, marked by perseverance, accomplishment, and gratitude. Still, pursuing a doctorate while working full-time wasn’t without its challenges. Keller reflected on the “relentless work” required, noting that he took his backpack full of assignments everywhere he went for three years, always ready to squeeze in schoolwork whenever possible.
Although he was balancing multiple roles such as educator, husband, dad, son, and soccer coach, all identities he carried alongside being a doctoral student, motivation was never far behind. “I love to learn, so keeping up with classes wasn’t too much of a challenge,” Keller said. “My commitment to completing this program stems from a desire to amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ educators and contribute to a greater understanding of the challenges they face.”
When asked how this accomplishment will impact his role as an educator, Keller says he hopes to continue building on the work he’s begun by connecting with others in the field, contributing further to research, and most importantly, supporting teachers in meaningful, impactful ways.
He credits his wife and family for being his biggest support system. “They made it possible for me to earn this degree,” he said. He also recognized the important contributions of his dissertation participants and thanked Renaissance Academy for tuition support and encouragement along the way.
His advice for others considering an advanced degree while working full-time is clear and encouraging. Know your “why” - that will keep you grounded during the hardest moments. Stay organized and don’t procrastinate. Find a program that aligns with your goals. And most importantly, persist. “YOU CAN DO IT!”
From teacher to scholar, Dr. Keller continues to shape the future of education one thoughtful, purpose-driven step at a time.