USC Rossier Professor Julie Marsh joins distinguished Class of 2026 AERA Fellows

National honor recognizes Marsh’s influential scholarship in education policy, governance and systems improvement.

By Ellen Evaristo Published on February 19, 2026

USC Rossier celebrates the selection of Julie Marsh, professor of education policy, as a 2026 Fellow of the American Educational Research Association (AERA), one of the field’s most prestigious honors. Marsh is among 34 scholars nationwide chosen for this recognition of sustained excellence in education research.

“We are thrilled to honor the 2026 AERA Fellows as they join a distinguished community of scholars,” said AERA Executive Director Tabbye Chavous. “Their significant contributions to education research demonstrate the highest standards of academic excellence and scholarship.”

AERA Fellows are nominated by their peers and selected by the AERA Fellows Committee in acknowledgment of exceptional contributions to education research. Marsh’s induction will take place during a formal ceremony at the AERA Annual Meeting in Los Angeles on April 9. With the addition of this cohort, the total number of AERA Fellows will reach 820.

“I’m honored to be named an AERA Fellow,” said Professor Marsh. “This recognition reflects the collaborative communities of scholars, educators and practitioners who share a commitment to creating more equitable education systems.”

Marsh’s research spans education policy, governance and systems improvement, with significant influence on how educational reforms are understood and enacted. Her scholarship has shaped national and international conversations about policy implementation and instructional improvement.

“Julie’s election as an AERA Fellow is a powerful affirmation of the rigor, relevance and impact of her scholarship,” said USC Rossier Dean Pedro Noguera. “Her work has shaped how education policymakers and educators think about reform, improvement and equity, and we are proud to see her contributions recognized at the highest level.”

The American Educational Research Association, founded in 1916, is the largest interdisciplinary research association devoted to the scientific study of education and learning. Its Fellows Program honors scholars whose work demonstrates the highest standards of academic excellence and contributes in meaningful ways to the field of education research.