On Saturday, April 26, Michael Howze, our very own Director of Administration and Finance for Facilities Services, crossed the stage at Point Park University to receive his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership and Administration. This milestone represents far more than the completion of a degree—it’s the culmination of a powerful and deeply personal journey.
A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Michael was raised by his grandmother after the passing of his grandfather when he was just 11 months old. As a young adult, college wasn’t part of his original plan—until his high school athletic director saw something in him and encouraged him to pursue higher education. With that support, Michael completed his senior year, applied to college, and was accepted to Duquesne University—fulfilling a dream his grandmother never imagined possible.
Education Continued
Determined to support his education financially, Michael joined the U.S. Army between his sophomore and junior years. He went on to serve more than two decades in uniform, including three years on active duty and 18 years in the Air National Guard, retiring in 2019. His military experience built the foundation for the disciplined, service-oriented leadership he’s known for today.
After earning his bachelor’s degree, Michael began his career as a counselor at a secondary school for at-risk youth. Over the course of 15 years, he rose to a senior administrator role, gaining deep experience in student support, program leadership, and organizational management. He later transitioned into corporate America after relocating to the Philadelphia area, spending nine years in the private sector before accepting a leadership role at Ithaca College—an experience that rekindled his passion for education. Although he does not work directly with students today, Michael sees his role as essential in shaping the systems and services that help students thrive.
Determination Led to Degrees
He went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Point Park University. Encouraged by a trusted mentor, he eventually returned to Point Park to pursue his doctorate—seeking a program that could align with both his personal values and his professional responsibilities.
Through the Ed.D. program in Leadership and Administration, Michael combined his passion for education, leadership, and organizational development. His dissertation directly informs his work at UT Facilities Services —where he serves the HR, finance, safety, procurement, central supply, and business operations teams with a deep understanding of organizational systems, strategic leadership, and the realities leaders face navigating complex organizations.
The recent hooding ceremony marked more than a degree—it celebrated a journey of growth, resilience, and purpose. Michael leads with vision and intention, always quick to recognize the strengths in others. Now, it’s our turn to recognize his.
Advice for Others
A strong advocate for lifelong learning, Michael is open about the challenges of balancing academic and professional life, but he’s quick to affirm that it was absolutely worth it. Though he began the program before joining UT, he regularly highlights the University’s tuition fee waiver as one of the most valuable benefits for full-time staff—offering employees a path to education without the weight of student loans.
When asked what advice he would give to those considering going back to school, Michael shared the same guidance once given to him by a trusted friend and mentor at Ithaca College—who now serves as the institution’s president:
“If you’re going to stay in higher education, get your doctorate.”
That simple but powerful advice helped shape his path—and now, he passes it on to others walking similar roads.
Michael Howze is living proof to what’s possible with vision, perseverance, and purpose. His story reminds us all that no dream is too big—and the path to achieving it may just begin right where you are.