Outstanding 2025 Grads of Simmons School of Education and Human Development chosen as graduation ceremony speakers

Simmons School Graduation Speakers: (L-R) Sean Murphy, Doctor of Education; Destiny Fairley, Master of Science in Counseling; and Hannah Galbreath, Master of Education
(L-R) Sean Murphy, Doctor of Education; Destiny Fairley, Master of Science in Counseling; and Hannah Galbreath, Master of Education had the honor of serving as student speakers at the Simmons morning commencement ceremonies.

Sean Murphy, Doctor of Education, was selected as the student speaker by faculty in Education Policy and Leadership because they say he embodies what it means to be a scholar-practitioner in the field of higher education. He is described as a dedicated student affairs professional and talented scholar. Drawing from a rich array of leadership experiences within higher education institutions, as well as the United States Navy, Sean currently serves as Director for the Student Center and Activities at SMU. Faculty says he brings a level of intellectual curiosity, humility, and professionalism to all spaces and interactions, consistently elevating the discourse, quality of relationships, and outcomes of any endeavor, whether in the classroom or in his professional role. Sean plans to continue to serve SMU, his academic community, and all those around him with his commitment to excellence and human centeredness.

Destiny Fairley received a Master of Science in Counseling. After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Destiny engaged in two years of post-baccalaureate research at the University of South Florida focused on reducing mental health disparities in vulnerable populations. Since coming to SMU in 2022, Destiny has been actively involved in the counseling professional honor society, Chi Sigma Iota and serves as a graduate assistant in Simmons’ college Access TRIO program, working with at-risk youth. Her internship work at Genesis Women’s Shelter has given her the opportunity to provide culturally responsive, trauma-informed care. Faculty describe Destiny as collaborative, curious, a passionate advocate for her clients and a natural leader who is poised to be a positive change agent in the world.

Hannah Grace Galbreath, Master of Education graduate, was chosen as a student speaker in recognition of her outstanding contributions as both a student and a teacher. Throughout her time at Simmons, Hannah consistently demonstrated leadership, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to excellence. Consistently, she submitted high-quality work ahead of deadlines, posed thought-provoking questions, and actively engaged in class discussions. Hannah’s dedication to implementing research-based science teaching practices and her thoughtful approach to understanding teacher education pathways have made a significant impact on her peers and instructors alike. As she prepares to begin her Ph.D. at SMU, Simmons faculty is confident that she will continue to make meaningful contributions to the field of science education.

Simmons School 2025 graduation speakers: Syad Ali, Doctor of Liberal Studies and Julia Cunningham, Bachelor of Science in Sport Performance Leadership
(L-R) Syad Ali, Doctor of Liberal Studies and Julia Cunningham, Bachelor of Science in Sport Performance Leadership had the honor of serving as student speakers at the Simmons afternoon commencement ceremonies.

Syad Ali, Doctor of Liberal Studies, has spent over twenty years in the corporate technology industry leading strategic projects for fortune 500 companies. Dr. Ali simultaneously sought to increase his community impact by working as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2019. Faculty say his innovative, empathetic approach to scholarship has enriched the lives of both peers and mentors throughout his time at SMU. Dr. Ali’s dissertation—combines research within the fields of mental health, religious studies, and technology, and presents unique, interdisciplinary insights that are sure to positively affect the lives of others for years to come. Faculty members say his interdisciplinary diversity, collaborative spirit and leadership make him exceptionally qualified to offer words of celebration, wisdom, and challenge to his fellow graduates as one of this year’s graduation speakers.

Julia Cunningham was selected by faculty who say she is a wonderful example of the best the Department of Applied Physiology and Sport Management has to offer. She is graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Performance Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Julia is a member of several academic honor societies and has been an active member of the SMU community, serving as President of the SMU Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity and as an SMU  Student Ambassador. Faculty add that she is an outstanding student and leader and very deserving of the honor to serve as a 2025 Simmons commencement student speaker.

 

 

Simmons Sport Management Partners with Dallas Sports Commission on Highly Successful Global Sports Business Summit

A packed conference room with attendees listening to panelists at the Global Sports Business Summit on sports management.The Future of Mega Sports Events, the growth of Women’s Sports and Broadcasting, and the Future of College Athletics were among the topics discussed by sports industry leaders at the first Global Sports Business Summit.  The event presented by SMU Sport Management and the Dallas Sports Commission was attended by hundreds who packed the auditorium of SMU’s Collins Executive Education Center.

Leadership from major sports franchises including the Dallas Cowboys, Mavericks, FC Dallas, Texas Rangers, Wings along with PGA of America and SMU’s new Athletic Director Damon Evans were among the panelists.

Peter Carton, J.D., says the months of preparation paid off resulting in the event being an overwhelming success with participants from around the country. “We felt there was a need in the marketplace to bring together sports industry executives and students aspiring to move into roles within the industry.”  Carton says he hopes the Summit will become an annual event to offer programming to executives and rising stars in the sports industry.  He believes it is especially important for students, “so they can see the depth and breadth of opportunities in the sports industry.”

Four panelists, including Dan Hunt with a microphone, sit in chairs at the Global Sports Business Summit, engaging in discussions about sports media and innovation.Dan Hunt, President of FC Dallas and Co-Chair of the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee Board, called the Summit an incredible asset to the community.  “There are a lot of ideas, a lot of innovation discussed ranging from the importance of social media, TV strategy and broadcast, to streaming that helps all of us in the business think about how we can improve.”  Hunt, an SMU Alum (2000), went on to say that hosting the Summit establishes SMU as a leader in Sport Management across the country.

Carton says he is grateful to Monica Paul and her staff at the Dallas Sports Commission and believes the summit has further strengthened the relationship between SMU and DSC.

International Symposium Offers Spirited and Valuable Exchange of Ideas

A diverse group of scholars attentively watching a presentation during the symposiumScholars from universities in South Korea and Taiwan joined SMU Simmons faculty at the 2025 International Visiting Scholars Symposium hosted by Simmons. The event, spearheaded by Dr. Jiun-Yu “Jerry” Wu, included a number of thought-provoking discussions of research projects done by the educators.

The event featured interdisciplinary talks from 12 distinguished scholars from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan and Sookmyung in Korea. Topics included exploring education, medical humanities, digital learning, AI, and disability studies. The talks touched on the popularity of Care Robots in South Korea, Exploring Why adolescents Experience Loneliness, Dialogic Reading Training to support Social and Emotional Communication, and Social Solidarity with People with Mental Illness and more.

Dr. Stephanie Al Otaiba presents at the 2025 IMHRC International Symposium, discussing interdisciplinary research topicsThe purpose of the symposium was to bring together leading scholars across disciplines to foster global academic collaboration. The event highlighted Simmons’ and SMU’s commitment to interdisciplinary research, international partnerships, and community engagement.

Dean Stephanie Knight expressed gratitude to the visiting scholars who traveled thousands of miles to participate in the symposium. The participants said it gave them a valuable opportunity to engage in conversations about important global issues and research innovation.

 

2025 IMHRC International Symposium group picture

Weaving Hope, Inspiring Change: Simmons and Meadows Schools Unite to Address Homelessness

Volunteers gather around a table, assembling Blessing Bags with essential items for individuals facing homelessness in the community.Helping the community see homelessness through a lens of dignity and humanity was the purpose of Weaving Hope, Inspiring Change, a powerful collaboration between the Simmons School of Education & Human Development and the Meadows School of the Arts.

The volunteer event brought together Simmons students, faculty, staff and community members who heard from inspiring organizations like Vogel Alcove, which supports children and families experiencing homelessness, and Austin Street Center, one of the largest low-barrier shelters in Dallas.

Participants created Blessing Bags to offer those experiencing homelessness when they encounter them in public. The bags were filled with filled with hygiene products and snacks. Simmons’ Dr. Laura Robinson-Doyle, one of the organizers says it was a way for those attending to turn awareness into immediate action.

Community members collaborate at a table, filling bags with hygiene products and snacks to support those experiencing homelessness.Another workshop was led in partnership by First Christian Church of Terrell, whose members taught guests how to crochet sleeping mats using recycled grocery sacks. A beautiful reminder that even what we consider waste can become a source of comfort and care.

By teaching participants how to help, the event helped to grow community impact -one of the goals of Simmons’ strategic plan.

The large turnout included Simmons and Meadows students, faculty and staff who, through the event, took a meaningful step in building empathy, encouraging advocacy, and empowering our community to see homelessness with more compassion and understanding.

Simmons in the National Rankings

Best Grad School - US News and World Report 2025SMU’s Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development has maintained its prestigious spot in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 national rankings. Simmons remains in the top 50 out of  255 participating public and private graduate schools of education around the country

Simmons also maintains the #11 spot among all private universities on the list. Simmons is #1 among private universities in the Southwest and is ranked #3 among all colleges in Texas. Statewide, only the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M at College Station, both public universities, have a ranking higher than Simmons.

Leon Simmons Endowed Dean Stephanie L. Knight, Ph.D. has led SMU Simmons since 2017. “In the competitive world of higher education, Simmons has maintained its impressive spot in the national rankings. “I remain incredibly grateful to Simmons’ dedicated research faculty members who are the reason for our continued success.”

To rank schools of education, U.S. News & World Report considers many factors including research activity, academic quality, faculty resources, student selectivity, doctoral degrees granted, as well as peer assessment scores. Simmons has 82 active research projects with 73% of tenured professors engaged in research.

Knight noted that SMU professor Leanne Ketterlin-Geller received a $14 million grant to study improving math learning loss nationwide, setting the SMU record for highest single award total. “With work like that being done by our faculty researchers, I believe Simmons will only continue to rise in the rankings and national prominence.”

For a complete list of the U.S. News & World Report rankings visit https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-education-schools/edu-rankings.

Directors and Center announced to Advance Interdisciplinary Research in Technology Enhanced Immersive Learning

In a move to encourage interdisciplinary research and multidisciplinary collaboration across SMU, two prominent faculty researchers have been named to lead the SMU Technology Enhanced Immersive Learning (TEIL) cluster and oversee the new TEIL Center.

Dr. Cuevas and Dr. Bing interacting with Virtual Reality Surgery Simulator.Dr. Tony Cuevas, Simmons Assistant Dean of Technology and Innovation, has been appointed by Dean Stephanie Knight as Co-Director of the Technology Enhanced Immersive Learning (TEIL) Center at SMU. Dr. Eric G. Bing, Dedman Department of Anthropology and Simmons Department of  APSM,  has been appointed Co-Director by Dedman Interim Dean, Nathan Balke.

Dean Knight says she is excited about the impact Cuevas and Bing will make. “Dr. Bing and Dr. Cuevas are truly a dynamic duo. Their leadership will guide the cluster as it expands interdisciplinary research and development in immersive learning, emerging educational technologies, and transformative pedagogical approaches.”

The TEIL research cluster was created by SMU leaders to bring together researchers, scholars and practitioners with an interest and expertise in immersive learning and AI in education and society to address large-scale questions that require interdisciplinary approaches.

Eric BingBing is a professor of global health with joint appointments at SMU in the Department of Anthropology in Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences and the Department of Applied Physiology and Sport Management in Simmons. He has expertise in global health, interdisciplinary research, community engagement, and innovative education.  Bing says, “I’ve had the privilege of leading cross-sector collaborations, research initiatives, and strategic partnerships that advance technology-enhanced learning.  I look forward to helping lead this multidisciplinary effort that continues to integrate immersive and experiential learning methodologies to enhance education with real-world application.

Tony CuevasCuevas, Assistant Dean for Learning Technology at Simmons and a clinical professor, expressed his excitement about the work ahead. “The new TEIL Center will formalize and further expand on the work of the TEIL research cluster.”  Located in the existing lab space in Harold Simmons Hall, the new center will be dedicated to the work of the cluster. According to Cuevas, “It will also provide a space to promote transformational interdisciplinary research in technology-enhanced immersive learning, including basic and applied research, and engaging policy issues to improve our understanding of the interfaces among educational technology and immersive and intelligent learning systems.”

Cuevas has a deep background in educational technology, immersive learning environments, and applied research, and has been instrumental in integrating emerging technologies into pedagogy. His leadership in program development, faculty engagement, and research initiatives will be vital in advancing the cluster’s mission and ensuring its practical impact.

Bing and Cuevas will oversee strategic planning, research initiatives, and the development of collaborative partnerships, ensuring TEIL’s emergence as a leader in immersive and technology-enhanced learning.

Vision for the Research Cluster

The Technology & Immersive Learning Research Cluster will serve as a hub for multidisciplinary collaboration across SMU and beyond. It will:

  • Advance interdisciplinary research at the intersection of immersive learning, technology, and education.
  • Support faculty and student initiatives in research, development, and implementation of cutting-edge learning solutions.
  • Foster partnerships between academia, industry, and community stakeholders to drive innovation.
  • Help secure funding and resources to sustain the long-term impact of the center’s work.

 

SMU Researcher Awarded $14 Million Grant to Improve Math Learning Loss Nationwide, Setting SMU Record for Highest Single Award Total

Leanne Ketterlin-Geller’s grant represents the highest single total dollar amount in SMU’s history, aiming to help students prepare for their future by learning fractions

SMU professor Leanne Ketterlin-GellerSMU professor Leanne Ketterlin-Geller was awarded a $14 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to nationally scale a math intervention designed to help students improve their fraction skills – the highest single total dollar amount in SMU’s history. The five-year project will provide support to 4th and 5th graders in rural settings and out-of-school programs across the United States.

“A limited understanding of fractions is a major problem in schools because fractions are the gatekeeper for future success in algebra,” said Ketterlin-Geller, professor of education policy and leadership in SMU’s Simmons School of Education and Human Development and the Texas Instruments Endowed Chair in Education. An internationally recognized math and special education researcher, Ketterlin-Geller also leads Simmons’ Research in Mathematics Education program.

“Recent data suggests that compared to reading, more students struggle with math, especially for underserved populations,” she said.

As principal investigator of SCALE UP, Ketterlin-Geller’s largest grant to date, the SMU researcher will work with partners at six universities to examine how a fraction intervention program can be used in rural schools and in community-based afterschool settings. This program, called Fraction Face-Off!, was developed by researchers at Vanderbilt University. Students work in small groups with their educator or tutor to learn about fractions during 36 sessions.

Cassandra working with students on fractions“Understanding proportions, ratios, algebra and higher levels of math begins with an understanding of fractions,” Ketterlin-Geller said. “Just memorizing procedures is not enough, students need to understand the ‘why’ of fractions.”

Before beginning the new SCALE UP project, Ketterlin-Geller and partner researchers worked with Fraction Face-Off! In diverse settings through the SCALE project. They found students who completed the program showed measurable improvement in their understanding of fractions. The new project expands the intervention to include more students and educators in additional settings.

“Educator training and coaching is a key part of the program’s effectiveness,” Ketterlin-Geller said. Rural school educators and community-based providers often have limited access to effective interventions and professional training. The program provides them with online training and ongoing coaching, she said.

Leanne Ketterlin Geller instructing teachersSMU will lead the SCALE UP project with implementation partners including the University of Missouri and The University of Texas at Austin. Collaboration partners include the University of Virginia, the University of Hawaii, Georgia State University and the University of California, Riverside. WestEd is the independent evaluator.

Simmons Dean Stephanie Knight says the research is much needed. “This history-making grant to develop more effective ways of supporting fraction learning is essential to the ever-growing number of students who struggle with math. I am appreciative that Dr. Ketterlin-Geller’s work is being rewarded and proud that her research at SMU Simmons has the potential to make a significant impact in improving the math trajectories for students across the country.”

The contents of this announcement were developed under grant S411A240014 from the U.S. Department of Education, Education Innovation and Research (EIR) Program as part of a financial assistance award of $13,990,544 funded by EIR (90% of total project costs) and 10% funded by non-governmental sources. The Department of Education does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this announcement may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department of Education does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this announcement does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of, or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by, any Federal agency.

Simmons Associate Professor and Researcher Receives Prestigious Altschuler Teaching Award

Dr. Pavlakis with Altschuler Teaching Award

Dr. Alexandra Pavlakis, an associate professor in Simmons Education Policy and Leadership Department, has been named a 2025 recipient of the Altschuler Distinguished Teaching Professor Award.

Pavlakis teaches leadership and qualitative methods courses on the doctoral and master’s level.  Besides her work in the classroom, Pavlakis is also a successful researcher. She and colleague Meredith Richards created a comic book that helps educators see homelessness through the eyes of students. Uprooted: Voices of Student Homelessness is the result of years studying how homelessness affects students and the best ways to help them succeed in school. Book cover to Uprooted: Voices of Student Homelessness Thousands of copies of the graphic novel were requested and sent to school districts, shelters, non-profit organizations, universities, hospitals and even juvenile probation centers throughout the country.

The Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) award’s selection committee said Dr. Pavlakis’ application stood out as a testament to her dedication to high-quality instruction and her commitment to fostering meaningful student learning experiences. The award honors her outstanding work both in the classroom and for her unwavering support of her students. Pavlakis was selected out of a field of SMU’s most outstanding professors.

2025 recipient of the Dr. Pavlakis receives Altschuler Distinguished Teaching Professor Award with Dr. Gerald Turner

As part of receiving the Altshuler Award, Dr. Pavlakis will now join the Review and Selection Committee for SMU’s Teaching  Awards; will serve as an Advisory Member to the CTE and participate in two Board meetings per year to discuss initiatives, programs, and how the CTE can improve teaching and learning across the university.

She will also present at least once during your two-year tenure as an Advisory Member at CTE events, such as the Teaching Effectiveness Symposium, the Spring Kickoff, the Spring Pedagogical Institute, and/or other CTE events.

Dr. Alexandra Pavlakis with Simmons School Dean Stephanie KnightAward recipients receive a one-time $10,000 grant and become members of SMU’s Academy of Distinguished Teachers. Pavlakis received the award from President Gerald Turner at the Spring 2025 General Faculty Meeting on January 22 and was honored by Simmons EPL with a reception attended by Dean Stephanie Knight prior to the ceremony

.

 

 

 

Program Created by SMU Simmons PhD Candidate Awarded Presidential Award for Excellence

Logo for Girls In Engineering Math Science (GEMS)President Joe Biden has selected the local nonprofit, The GEMS Camp (Girls in Engineering, Math, and Science), as a recipient of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM). The award recognizes individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to mentoring and have enhanced the participation of individuals including persons with disabilities who might not otherwise have considered or had access to opportunities in STEM disciplines and professions.

Saki MiltonEstablished by current SMU Simmons Ph.D. candidate and Graduate Research Assistant Saki Milton in 2010 when she was a classroom teacher, The GEMS Camp empowers underrepresented and underserved middle school girls through immersive informal STEM education opportunities, leadership development, and mentorship. The organization’s innovative programs integrate culturally affirming, real-world applications of STEM and career mentorship to inspire confidence and foster academic success. The GEMS Camp has empowered more than 1,300 underrepresented girls through year-round programming and summer camps hosted at major universities with the next one planned for SMU this summer.

GEMS has achieved an impressive 85% retention rate since 2015. Its first cohort of 7th graders has now graduated from high school, and 80% of them became STEM majors or pursued careers in STEM. This success aligns with the PAESMEM program’s goal of highlighting exemplary mentoring efforts that broaden participation in STEM fields.

Milton says her direct work with girls in the Dallas community led her to SMU to pursue a Ph.D. in STEM education to apply theory to practice. She says her faculty advisor, Dr. Candace Walkington’s research projects aligned well with her interest in informal STEM learning, especially informal mathematics. “Since I’ve been at Simmons, my knowledge base has expanded tremendously giving me an in-depth understanding of educational equity, particularly for Black and Latina girls who have been historically marginalized in STEM subjects.  I have been able to incorporate my work with The GEMS Camp into my research interest, while learning qualitative and quantitative methods to study interventions like The GEMS Camp.”

Milton went on to say,We are honored to be part of the national movement aimed at expanding access to high-demand, high-paying STEM careers and inspiring the next generation of women leaders in STEM.” Simmons Dean Stephanie Knight offered her congratulations. “We at Simmons are so proud of Saki and honored to help her continue to elevate the GEMS program through research and learning.”

Administered by the National Science Foundation on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Presidential Award celebrates mentors who provide critical guidance outside of traditional classrooms, shaping the future of the STEM workforce. Each Presidential Awardee receives a certificate signed by the President of the United States and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. Milton plans to attend the award ceremony in Washington, D.C. later this year.

For more information visit www.thegemscamp.org.

Simmons Post Doctoral Fellow Named to International Literacy Association’s 2025 30 Under 30

30 under 30 2025. ILA's 30 under 30. See the new class of honorees at literacywordwide.org/30under30Dr. Mai Zaru, a postdoctoral researcher in Simmons Teaching and Learning Department, has been named to the International Literacy Association’s 2025 list of 30 under 30. The prestigious recognition highlights emerging leaders who are transforming literacy education and promoting equity in classrooms, communities, and beyond.

The 2025 cohort includes change-makers from 12 countries, all under the age of 30, who are driving innovations and advocating for accessible, inclusive learning experiences. Dr. Zaru noted “This honor is both humbling and deeply meaningful, as it reflects not only my individual efforts but the collective work of many who are committed to advancing literacy and educational equity. Our shared mission is to break down the barriers to access and opportunity that persist in classrooms and communities.”

Dr. Zaru is a Palestinian postdoctoral researcher, educator, and poet, actively challenging the paradigm of the ‘Orient World’ (Said, 1978) through narratives and counter-narratives rooted in liberatory education. Her research harnesses qualitative methodologies to document refugee literacy practices, creating spaces for marginalized stories to flourish within the transformative dynamics of dialogue and translanguaging practices. Committed to advancing interdisciplinary discourse with and for immigrant families, she aims to drive qualitative methodologies that decisively decolonize literacy practices.

Dr. Stephanie Al Otaiba and Dr. Mai ZaruDr. Stephanie Al Otaiba, Patsy and Ray Caldwell Centennial Chair in Teaching & Learning, nominated  Dr. Zaru for this honor. “What makes her “one to watch” is her commitment to promoting literacy as a fundamental human right and her focus on amplifying the voices of immigrants while telling their stories through a lens of inclusion.”

Profiles of the 2025 honorees are featured in Literacy Today, ILA’s member magazine at literacyworldwide.org/30under30.