A 2023 alumna of App State’s Doctorate of Educational Leadership program in Higher Education, Dr. McKaughan's research focused on women leadership and hierarchies in military academies. Dr. McKaughan draws from a rich legacy of military academics as a graduate of The Citadel, South Carolina’s premier military academy, and the Academic Dean of Oak Ridge Military Academy. While at App State, Dr. McKaughan’s interest in leadership and hierarchical institutions led to her dissertation, “Leadership Development for Women in Military Schools: A Mixed Methods Study of Authentic Leadership.”
In September 18, 2025, Emerald Insight published an article from Dr. McKaughan’s dissertation, bringing to light important research findings on systemic thinking and leadership development of women in military schools. The article is titled, "Can hierarchical military schools develop systemic thinking in their cadets? Women graduates as systemic (authentic) leaders." McKaughan's dissertation committee was Chaired by Dr. Jennifer McGee and included committee members Dr. William Gummerson and Dr. Steven Wall.
Additionally, Dr. McKaughan returns to her alma mater, The Citadel, as the new Scholar in Chief where she plans to continue her research outside of a higher education setting. Dr. McKaughan is especially thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the institution where she grew as an undergraduate student and a cadet.
professional headshot of Caroline McKaughan
