Dr. Lathardus Goggins II’s scholarly research and advocacy agenda centers on the intersection of African-centered rites of passage, culturally responsive education, and social-emotional learning (SEL) as mechanisms to promote identity development, academic achievement, and community empowerment—particularly for African American students.
His work is grounded in over 30 years of experience as an educator and draws heavily on African-centered epistemologies and the philosophical traditions of critical pedagogy and liberation education. At the core of Dr. Goggins' scholarship is the belief that education must affirm students' cultural identities and provide transformative experiences that enable them to achieve both academic success and holistic self-development.
Key components of his agenda include:
African-Centered Rites of Passage (ACRoP): Dr. Goggins positions ACRoP as a foundational framework for guiding human development, fostering authentic identity, and transferring cultural wisdom. His work, especially in Bringing the Light into a New Day, details how these rites serve as culturally grounded processes that promote resilience, purpose, and communal responsibility among youth.
Transformative Social Emotional Learning (TSEL): He expands conventional SEL frameworks by incorporating African-centered values and spiritual development. His research highlights the importance of culturally responsive SEL in nurturing emotional intelligence, relationship skills, and ethical decision-making, particularly in marginalized communities.
Academic and Institutional Interventions: Through empirical research, such as his dissertation on the Academic STARS retention model, Dr. Goggins demonstrates how rites of passage programming can enhance GPA, retention, and graduation rates among African American students in higher education.
Equity and Belonging: Dr. Goggins critiques superficial approaches to DEI and instead advocates for authentic diversity that is rooted in American democratic values and the lived experiences of diverse populations. His work challenges educational institutions to move beyond inclusion toward fostering true belonging and justice.
Comprehensive Academic Success: He redefines academic achievement to include cultural identity, community uplift, and the practical application of knowledge. His scholarship calls for a holistic framework that emphasizes not just grades, but character development, civic responsibility, and societal contribution.
Through Applied Academic Solutions and extensive writing, Dr. Goggins continues to influence educators, policymakers, and community leaders by providing practical, culturally grounded tools and strategies for transformative education.