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Dr. Josh Patterson
College of Education
College of Education
Adjunct Professor of Education
jlpatterson@andersonunversity.edu
College of Education
Academic Background
With over 23 years in public education, Dr. Josh Patterson brings the perspective of a lifelong school leader to Anderson University. He has served as principal of two award-winning schools—including a National Blue Ribbon School—where he championed Whole Child education and student success. Since 2015, he has taught graduate courses at AU in research, instructional leadership, and school finance, equipping aspiring administrators to lead with vision and care.
B.A. in Elementary Education, Furman University (2002)
M.A. in School Leadership, Furman University (2006)
Ph.D. in Educational Administration, University of South Carolina (2010)
Dissertation: The Literacy Learning Experience of Boys in Single-Gender Classrooms
Fast Facts
My classes are practical, discussion-based, and deeply connected to real-world school leadership. I challenge graduate students to connect research to practice, wrestle with complex case studies, and collaborate on solutions that address the needs of students, families, and communities.
Anderson University provides a unique opportunity to prepare current and aspiring school leaders in a Christ-centered environment. I value the ability to integrate faith, leadership, and best practices in education while mentoring future administrators.
Educational leadership is more than management—it is about shaping school culture, advocating for students, and building partnerships that transform communities. A career in education provides an opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of children and families.
National Blue Ribbon School Principal (2023)
Greenville County Schools Administrator of the Year (2023)
SC PTA Administrator of the Year (2020)
ASCD Emerging Leader (2014)
Multiple publications and presentations on inquiry, leadership, and Whole Child practices
I most enjoy guiding graduate students as they translate theory into practice. Many of my students are current teachers and aspiring principals, and it is rewarding to see them grow in confidence as leaders who can transform schools.
Whole Child Education
Principalship & Leadership
School Culture
School Operations (Finance, Human Resources, etc.)
Project/Inquiry-Based Learning
Curriculum & Instruction
Patterson, J., Laskowski, J., & Palmer, R. (2019). Tools of Collaboration: Empowering Children to Become Active Participants in Their World. edCircuit.
Patterson, J. (2016). Get Lost in a Curiosity Corner: Providing Space for Wonder and Inquiry. National Center for Families Learning.
Patterson, J. et al. (2015–2016). Multiple contributions in ASCD Express and ASCD InService on inquiry, PBL, and teacher leadership.