College of Education
Department of Educational Studies

Discovering and Developing Human Potential in Diverse Learning Environments


Our nationally known faculty are engaged in the discovery, application, and dissemination of new knowledge centered on three key themes: Educating Diverse Learners, STEM Learning, and Effective Teaching.

We pride ourselves in preparing students for positions as university professors, researchers, special education professionals, counseling psychologists, and testing, measurement and evaluation specialists. Our graduates work in schools, higher education, and private industry.

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EDST Citizen Award

This Department of Educational Studies recognition is for those who have gone above and beyond their roles or shown support and/or positive attitudes even in difficult situations. The nominations need to include concrete examples of such behaviors (e.g., random acts of kindness).

Dr. Jennifer Smith Headshot

Dr. Jennifer Smith

This recognition is particularly triggered after I learned that she agreed to serve on two additional search committees this past week in our department. Jennifer served/is serving in total on 6 searches: 2 for Special Education (co-chaired one of them with Denise Whitford), 2 for CPSY and 2 for Ed Psych. She agreed to these commitments in addition to the 5 courses she’s teaching (had to take two overloads), serving as an undergraduate coordinator for SPED and participating in I2 leadership and additional tasks. While I know many of us go beyond the call of duty while at the same time being buried with work, I want to recognize Jennifer for modeling a spirit of collegiality, teamwork, and willingness to ensure that the needs of students, our programs and our department are met, and doing it all with a big smile, positive attitude, and happy decorations on her door J.

Jennifer, congratulations for receiving EDST Citizen Award – February 2022!