Research, Discovery, and Innovation

Dr. Jamie Schissel is a professor in Teacher Education and Higher Education whose work focuses on creating fair and meaningful language assessment practices for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. She combines community‑based research with historical insight to understand how testing affects people’s lives. Through projects in places such as Oaxaca, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic, she partners with teachers, students, and community members to design multilingual, locally grounded approaches to assessment. Her goal is to elevate lived experience and reduce the social consequences of testing.

Dr. Tolulope Sulaimon is an assistant professor in Specialized Education Services whose work focuses on improving reading comprehension for students with learning difficulties through the use of technology and AI‑supported instructional tools. His research is shaped by early experiences as a math intervention specialist in Nigeria, where he saw students struggle with the comprehension demands of word problems, and by later work with assistive technology in U.S. schools. Today, he develops tools that help teachers implement evidence‑based strategies more effectively and make high‑quality comprehension support accessible to all learners, including those who may not receive consistent classroom instruction. He is also committed to mentoring students, providing hands‑on research opportunities that help them grow into thoughtful, practice‑focused scholars.

Dr. Niles’s research centers on school counseling, with particular attention to counselor burnout, well‑being, hope, and professional sustainability. Her work informs counselor preparation programs and support systems in K–12 settings.

Dr. Rice’s work on the role of school libraries in closing achievement gaps, advancing information access, and strengthening literacy outcomes for underserved student populations.

Dr. Osworth studies educational leadership and policy, focusing on equity, school governance, and the impacts of policy decisions on marginalized communities. His research critically examines reform, accountability, and democratic participation in education systems.

Dr. Harrington’s research at the intersection of educational leadership, disability studies, and inclusive policy, emphasizing systems‑level change and advocacy within higher education and K‑12 contexts.

Dr. Kim’s research focuses on educational measurement, statistics, and psychometrics. His work advances methods for assessment, item response theory, and measurement equity, helping improve how learning and achievement are evaluated.

Dr. Ramos’s research centers on her work in social work–informed higher education research, with emphasis on marginalized student populations, equity‑driven practice, and institutional responsibility in student success.

Dr. Rock’s research examines special education practice, instructional coaching, and technology‑enhanced professional development. Her work aims to improve outcomes for students with disabilities by supporting educators through evidence‑based systems and coaching models.

Dr. Mathews is a voice to help individuals understand that even if they’re surrounded by darkness, that there really a pathway forward. While her work with Trauma-Informed Professional Practice (TIPP) is important, she feels strong ties to her work in suicide prevention.