Research, Impact and Achievements: April 2026

Department of Curriculum and Instruction 

Victor Sampson • Associate Professor

Victor Sampson has been invited to be the featured speaker at this year’s Conference of the Advancement of Science Teaching (CAST), a science education nonprofit focused on designing equitable and inclusive learning experiences. An associate professor of STEM education, he studies how culturally and linguistically diverse groups of people use core ideas, frameworks, and practices of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to explain phenomena or to solve problems. 

In his work, Sampson emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful learning experiences to promote equity and broaden participation in STEM. A sought-after speaker, he has led workshops for educators, school leaders and policymakers through the U.S. and abroad.

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy 

Rachel White • Associate Professor 

Rachel White, founder and principal investigator of The Superintendent Lab, was recently quoted in an article from The Philadelphia Citizen concerning superintendent leadership, Can Superintendent Tony Watlington be Transformational?

White’s research examines issues of power in education policymaking and implementation, with a particular focus on superintendent labor markets and how district leaders can effectively navigate politically contentious environments.   

STEM Education Program 

Ariel Chasen • Doctoral Student 

Ariel Chasen, NSF postdoctoral fellow in STEM Education, has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious Michael H. Granof Outstanding Dissertation Award in Social Sciences, Business, and Education, recognizing the University’s top dissertation in this field. The award is sponsored by the University Co-op and honors exceptional work by doctoral students.  

Department of Kinesiology and Health Education 

Lara Latimer • Associate Professor of Instruction 

Lara Latimer is the recipient of the Inaugural Kitty Jane Oldham Endowed Excellence in Teaching Award, which recognizes exceptional faculty members who consistently demonstrate excellence in teaching, student support, leadership and community development.  

Latimer teaches from a holistic health perspective and focuses on personal health, including mental health, meditation and other stress management techniques. Along with her teaching position, Latimer runs a private coaching and consulting business. 

The Meadows Center 

Sharon Vaughn • Executive Director 

Sharon Vaughn was honored with the Faculty Achievement Award at the annual SEC Academic conference, which recognizes faculty with outstanding records in research, scholarship and service. Vaughn’s research focuses on effective interventions for students with reading difficulties and English language learners.