Michael Neel’s teaching and scholarly interests focus on professional learning and on the intersection of policy and practice in learning settings. He teaches in multiple programs at Peabody including the Leadership and Learning in Organizations doctoral program and the Independent School Leadership program. Professor Neel came to LPO from Peabody's Department of Teaching and Learning, where he taught pedagogy, classroom ecology, and education policy. Whether in teaching or research, Professor Neel is energized when working directly with professionals across a range of industries on learning, growth, and human flourishing. He is especially concerned with the ethical dimensions of professional practice as is evidenced in his published work. Currently, he is working with colleagues at Peabody on research projects that explore leader collaboration and professional learning initiatives.

In addition to teaching and scholarship, Professor Neel is the capstone director for the Leadership and Learning in Organizations doctoral program. In this role, he oversees the advising, support, and administration of the terminal degree projects for the largest doctoral program at Vanderbilt University.