NW Valley Times

Dr. Jason Ward, a professor at Grand Canyon University (GCU), was surprised to find a familiar name on his student roster for a doctoral cohort class. Tanner David, now Dr. Tanner David, was once his student in Spanish classes at Willow Canyon High School in Surprise, Arizona.

Ward reached out to confirm if this was the same student he remembered from nearly two decades ago. Upon confirmation and meeting her in class, Ward recalled thinking how interesting it would be to guide her academic journey as her dissertation chair.

David earned her doctorate in industrial and organizational psychology from GCU in less than three years. Her dissertation focused on "Psychological Contract Violation and Turnover Intention: Mediating Roles of Job Satisfaction and Employee Engagement."

Reflecting on her educational path, David noted that the passing of her grandfather during the COVID-19 pandemic motivated her return to academia after a four-year break following her master's degree from the University of Phoenix.

David appreciated Ward's engaging teaching style both in high school and during their Ph.D. classes at GCU. She mentioned that interactive learning methods made a lasting impression on her educational experience.

With assistance from fellow cohort member Dr. Michelle Kurth, David accelerated her studies by dedicating weekends to writing and research at resorts. Their collaborative efforts allowed them both to complete their dissertations successfully within weeks of each other.

Ward expressed pride in being part of David's academic journey and credited several faculty members for their support throughout the process.

For David, choosing GCU aligned with personal values instilled during upbringing while offering an effective cohort-based learning environment conducive to balancing full-time work with studies.