Angela Gaddis and Ada Wilson: Twin Diplomas
M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision alums, and twin sisters Angela Gaddis and Ada Wilson now have twin diplomas. Though they came to their careers in k-12 leadership for different reasons, they’re each prepared to change the world in their own ways.
The sisters chose the University of Houston, College of Education (UH COE) as the school to further their education because it is “one of the best master’s programs that is offered in the state of Texas,” says Gaddis. Gaddis did not always know she wanted to work in educational leadership, but she knew she wanted to make a difference in peoples’ lives. On the other hand, Wilson always knew she wanted to help children.
Some might find participating in the same educational program as a sibling to be a distraction, or a source of rivalry, but not Gaddis and Wilson. “We have always been like two peas in a pod,” says Gaddis, “so it was a privilege to share this experience with my sister.” Adds Wilson, “We have always encouraged one another to strive for excellence in whatever we do. We are cheerleaders and supporters of one another, and that’s exactly what we did throughout the program.”
Both women were inspired by visiting professor Wayne Emerson, and Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies (ELPS) chair, Anthony Rolle. Gaddis says that Emerson is always actively ready to share his experiences and knowledge. Rolle gave her confidence to accomplish her goals in higher academia. Both sisters say that Emerson and Rolle are very supportive, always ready to lend a helping hand, and top-notch in their respective fields.
Gaddis currently teaches, and hopes to one day lead her school into greatness. “The College of Education has equipped me to be a leader of leaders and to take education to the next level,” says Gaddis.
Wilson is currently teaching for the Houston Independent School District. “The time that I have spent at the college has shaped my ideas, given me a firm foundation, and has helped me to build a long lasting career in the education field,” says Wilson.
Since graduating, Gaddis misses coming into the classroom and sharing experiences. She enjoyed listening and sharing different ideas in education, and the experiences that make us all unique. Wilson misses learning and being able to gain expert knowledge from her professors. Both agree on how they would advise future students. “Enjoy and appreciate all of the knowledge that you receive,” says Wilson. “This knowledge will unlock doors and help you to gain the confidence needed to have a rewarding and fulfilling future in education.”