Dr. Sean Freeland didn’t expect to feel so at home when he first visited Carlow. Coming from a large university background, he was used to big campuses and big systems, but something about Carlow’s close-knit community felt different. “It was kind of like an embrace from the campus,” he recalls. Now, as Assistant Professor of Education and Program Director for Secondary Education, Dr. Freeland helps ensure that same sense of care and belonging reaches every future teacher who walks through the door.
At Carlow, Dr. Freeland is known for his student-centered approach, drawing from his own experience as a classroom teacher and championing the development of future educators through practice, empathy, and community. We caught up with Dr. Freeland to learn more about what brought him to Carlow, what sets the education department apart, and why he believes this work can truly change the world.
What brought you to Carlow?
I came from a large university, and when I first visited Carlow’s campus, I felt an immediate sense of warmth — almost like an embrace. That small, tight-knit community really resonated with me, especially coming from a small town myself. It felt different in the best way possible.
How would you describe the students at Carlow?
Our students are unique. They care deeply about becoming not just good teachers, but good people. They’re leaders — on campus, in their field placements, and in the way they live out Carlow’s values. I’ve never seen a department so genuinely live the values it promotes. The Mercy values aren’t just talked about; they’re at the center of everything we do.
What would you say to a prospective student who isn’t sure they’re a “leader” yet?
That’s something we see a lot — especially in first-year students. They’re unsure of themselves, and that’s okay. What’s special about our department is that we’re incredibly present. There are about 20 of us, lining the hallway in AJP, always here to support students without overwhelming them. We give them space to find their way, and we’re right there when they need us.
What makes the education department at Carlow stand out?
Every one of us is a practitioner. We’ve all been in the classroom, and many of us still are in some capacity. We know what’s happening in schools, what students and teachers are experiencing. We bring that real-world insight into everything we do. Plus, we actively draw on our students’ own experiences — especially in classes like math, where personal experiences can really shape how someone teaches.
How does the department live out Carlow’s mission of using education as a path to change the world?
We’re deeply committed to change — big and small. We’re constantly innovating and trying new things. We’ve got students who go to Harrisburg with faculty to advocate for education policy. We’re active in the community on Mercy Service Day. Whether it’s teaching in classrooms or influencing policy, we try to lead with values and purpose.
What would you say to someone who’s considering studying education at Carlow but isn’t quite sure yet?
If you’re looking for a place that will challenge you, support you, and truly care about your journey — this is it. We’re a community. It might sound corny, but we’re a family. We’ll help you become the best educator you can be, and then some — whether you want to teach right away, pursue graduate studies, or work in early childhood education. We’ll walk with you the whole way.