Dr. Melanie Lawrence

Biography

Melanie Lawrence is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at Western University. She holds a Master’s degree in Comparative International Policy Education and a PhD in Critical Policy, Equity, Leadership Studies in Education from the same institution. Her teaching and research interests encompass a broad range of intersecting life experiences related to international comparative critical equity policy studies in education. A sociologist by training, Dr. Lawrence focuses on the impact of neoliberalism on higher education through economic, political, and social theories. Her research critically examines how corporate-market influences are reshaping higher education in Ontario, emphasizing issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Dr. Lawrence has contributed to various scholarly publications, including discussions on neoliberal accountability in universities and the performance-based funding frameworks affecting educational institutions in Canada. Through her extensive work, she aims to foster transformative leadership in the field of education. In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Lawrence has received multiple grants and teaching awards, reflecting her commitment to excellence in education and research.

Research Interests