Biography
Dr. Sandra Mercier works as an Associate Professor of Education at Concordia University Irvine (CUI). She also serves as Director of two Master of Arts in Education programs: Curriculum & Instruction and Learning, Design, and Technology. She is a Subject Matter Expert for EDU 524, EDU 542, EDU 547, and EDU 586. Dr. Mercier earned an EdD in Adult Education from Capella University. Sandra’s areas of research interest include innovative teaching strategies within higher education, best practices for online teaching and learning, and enhanced mental health support for students and educators. Prior to joining CUI full-time in 2014, Sandra taught K-8 and enjoyed teaching a variety of grade levels and subject areas over 13 years in that role.
Education & Credentials
- Doctor of Education (EdD), Adult Education emphasis
- MAEd, Curriculum & Instruction
- BA Liberal Studies, Child Development emphasis
- Christ College/Lutheran Teaching Certificate
- CA Clear Teaching Credential
Courses Taught
- EDEL 510
- EDU 520
- EDU 524
- EDU 542
- EDU 547
- EDU 550
- EDU 586
- EDUT 501
- EDUT 521
- EDUT 522
- EDUT 523
Recent Publications and Presentations
- Doyle, L., & Mercier, S. (2023). “Research-based Strategies for a School-wide Approach to Professional Well-being.” [Conference presentation]. Lutheran Educator Conference, San Diego, CA.
- Doyle, L., & Mercier, S. (2025). Fostering self-efficacy and avoiding burnout: Research-based strategies to support school professionals. Journal of Organizational & Educational Leadership.
- Mercier, S. (2025). Why the Servant Leadership Approach is Ideal for School Administrators. Article featured on the Concordia University Irvine website.
- Doyle, L., & Mercier, S. (2026). “Servant Leadership and Self-Efficacy as Protective Factors Against Burnout.” [Conference presentation]. Best Practices in Ministry Conference, Phoenix, AZ.
- Tarbutton, T., Doyle, L., Mercier, S., Churney, H., Webb, C., & Young, T. (2026). Leading together: Missional focused work. Journal of Faith in the Academic Profession.
- Young, T., Mercier, S., & Churney, H. (2026, Oct 21). “Enhancing Sense of Belonging Through Adjunct Faculty Mentoring.” [Conference presentation]. 19th Annual Mentoring Conference, Albuquerque, NM, United States.