David McGough

David McGough teaches courses throughout the Education Department with the aim of encouraging students to strive for leadership roles in schools and society. He inspires growth by urging students to rethink personal perceptions, critically analyze social norms, and take action for social justice.

Drawn to NVU’s mission, Dr. McGough came to NVU from Nazareth College of Rochester, N.Y., where he chaired the Department of Social and Psychological Foundations of Education. His Ph.D. is in educational policy and leadership, with a specialization in social foundations of education.

In addition to a university professor, his professional roles include mechanical engineer, math teacher, outdoor educator, and corporate consultant.

While at Nazareth, Dr. McGough managed a six-year federal “Gear Up” grant for early college-readiness, initiated a “Center for Urban Education” and worked with local schools to institute a “restorative practice” approach for enhancing school climate and effectiveness.

Prior to that, he spent 10 years as an Outward Bound instructor and directed the Montana program of the Voyageur Outward Bound School.

Dr. McGough and his family live and work on a small farm in the Upper Valley.

He likes to cite his favorite quote, from the Greek poet Hesiod:

Before the gates of excellence the high gods have placed sweat; long is the road thereto and rough and steep at first; but when the heights are reached, then there is ease, then there is ease, though grievously hard in the winning.