For Dr. Jerry Parker, service extends far beyond committee meetings and the classroom. As an instructor at Southeastern, service has become a defining part of his career, shaping his impact across the institution.
Parker has a strong connection to Southeastern. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in French Language and Literature and his doctorate in Educational Leadership from SLU.
Along with his bachelor’s degree, he earned three minors in Spanish, Francophone and Creole Ethnic Studies and International Studies.
He also earned his Master of Arts in French, with concentrations in French and Spanish, from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and a Master of Public Administration from Southern University and A&M College.
He returned to SLU after his time at UL to help teach the next generation of students through all walks of life. Parker reflected on his mentor, his former department head, Dr. Luccia Harrison.
“When I graduated with my first master’s degree, I emailed my former department head, Dr. Harrison, to thank her for all the things I learned at Southeastern. A few days went by and she emailed me about a position opening. Since then, I’ve been here since 2014,” Parker said.
As a current instructor of French, Spanish and World Languages, his work did not end there. Parker went on to further his research and academic work.
His research spans topics including curriculum instruction, world language education and higher education.
“Within that, I am a multiculturalist. I look at how we can create academic spaces for democratic societies. Basically, how do we teach students from all walks of life to live with other people from all walks of life?” Parker said.
His research has appeared in publications such as The French Review, Hispania and Research Issues in Contemporary Education. Parker has also written many books, such as “The International Handbook of French Education.” He is currently writing his third book.
Parker has served in many positions across the university during his time here. Involvement is the heart of being connected to students across campus, in his view.
“Dr. Moreau told me the best thing I could do for myself was get involved in the institution, and I did. I’ve served on the Faculty Senate, the Title IX Sub-Committee, as an advisor for the World Languages Student Ambassador Program and I currently serve on the University Belonging Council,” said Parker.
His service to the university and student body has not gone unnoticed. Parker has received various awards, including one of Southeastern’s highest honors in 2024, the President’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service. The recognition highlighted years of contribution and reflected his dedication to the campus.
“To have my work recognized by the institution, it shows the power of Southeastern and the influence that it has had over my life. That was the first time I had ever won an award at Southeastern like that,” Parker said.
As an instructor, Parker teaches a diversity of courses ranging from Elementary French to Foreign Language Methodology. To him, that has a deeper meaning. He has met students from all majors and backgrounds.
Parker upholds the importance of getting to know students’ stories and encouraging them to succeed no matter where they come from.
“I really get to meet students around the university and get to know their stories. Some students think I might come from a very high role, but I come from a very modest family in a small town. I love being able to show students that you don’t have to come from any kind of place or look a certain way to succeed,” Parker said.
Parker’s research continues to shape his approach to teaching and student success. His work in multicultural education has also expanded to rural studies, connecting with the experience of many students.
While Parker’s accomplishments span research, teaching and service, his focus remains on creating meaningful relationships and opportunities for students’ success.
Through leadership, mentorship and campus involvement, he continues to leave a lasting impact on Southeastern and the students he serves.
