Donna Cooner

Dr. Donna Cooner is a Professor in the School Leadership Education Department at Colorado State University's School of Education. She specializes in educator preparation, principal leadership, and professional development school frameworks. Her research focuses on improving teacher and principal training programs, particularly through collaboration between universities and schools.

Dr. Cooner previously served as Director of Teacher Preparation (2006-2015) and currently advises doctoral students in educational leadership. She actively contributes to accreditation bodies like CAEP and TEAC. Her academic work emphasizes crisis leadership, stress management for new administrators, and clinical partnership models.

• Published over 20 children's books and authored YA novels like SKINNY and CAN'T LOOK AWAY
• Recipient of ALA's Best Young Adult Fiction Award, BEA's Buzz Book recognition, and Bankstreet College honors
• 2017 & 2014 Spirit of Texas High School Featured Author

Her recent publications explore leadership during the pandemic, transformational leadership theories, and outcomes of International Baccalaureate programs. Cooner's work bridges practical educational administration with creative writing for youth audiences.