SXU Three-Time Alumna Makes an Impact as an Educator
Saint Xavier University (SXU) alumna Elizabeth King '15, '21, '26 recently completed her third degree at SXU and is now taking the opportunity to influence young scholars and continue growing as an educator while working as a Chicago Public Schools teacher.
As a transfer to SXU, King earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a focus in clinical counseling/clinical psychology in 2015, a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management and Project Management in 2021, and most recently a Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education in 2026, along with preparation for an LBS1 endorsement.
Returning to SXU for each degree was an easy choice for King.
"SXU became more than just a university to me—it became a place where I felt supported, challenged, and connected to my purpose. After earning my bachelor's degree, I knew I wanted to continue growing professionally, and SXU had already given me such a strong foundation. When it was time to pursue my MBA, returning to SXU felt natural because I already understood the University's commitment to its students. Later, when I decided to pursue education, I once again chose SXU because of the relationships, academic support, and sense of community I had experienced there," King said.
While each degree has its own traits, King has found a way to utilize each one in her career as a teacher, and Saint Xavier's core values follow her into the classroom.
"Today, as a Chicago Public Schools teacher, I can use my background in psychology, healthcare management, project management, and early childhood education every day. Each degree I earned prepared me for a different part of who I am today. My psychology degree gave me a strong understanding of people, behavior, and human development. My MBA strengthened my leadership, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. My master's degree in early childhood education brought everything together and allowed me to use what I had learned to make a difference in the lives of children and families," King said.
One of the most important lessons King learned throughout her years at SXU was that education is a lifelong journey. As a mother of three juggling her career, the flexibility of Saint Xavier's graduate courses and the encouragement from her professors helped her to accomplish her dreams.
"I am especially proud that I continued my educational journey while balancing motherhood, work, and graduate school. My journey has taught me that your circumstances do not have to determine how far you go. With determination, faith, and support, you can continue pursuing your goals. My professors challenged me to think critically, reflect on my experiences, and become the type of professional who not only knows the content but understands the responsibility that comes with serving others. Several professors, advisors, and members of the SXU community impacted me throughout my years at the University. Their encouragement, patience, and willingness to see my potential meant a great deal to me," King said.
Armed with three degrees, King doesn't plan on stopping. She wants to keep growing and eventually move into educational leadership while continuing to make a positive impact on children and their families. King also wants to begin her own early childhood program.
"I have a long-term goal of establishing my own high-quality early childhood program, Kings and Queens Royalty Daycare Center, where children can receive safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate care. Ultimately, I want my career to reflect everything SXU has taught me to do: learn, lead, serve, and make a difference. I want to continue building a legacy that my three children can be proud of and creating opportunities that positively impact the next generation," King said.