Fran Reed

Dr. Fran Reed serves as Senior Core Faculty in Walden University's Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences, specializing in doctoral programs. With over 50 years of experience since 1973, her career spans special education teaching, professorship, Teacher Education Directorship, and University Deanship. She actively contributes to the Council for Exceptional Children and American Educational Research Association (AERA).

Her academic credentials include:

• PhD from University of Illinois Champaign Urbana
• MS from Governors State University
• BS from Olivet Nazarene University

Research centers on advancing special education through teacher preparation innovation, disability transition services, higher education leadership, and simulation technologies using live avatars. This work directly targets skill acquisition gaps for educators supporting developmental delays.

Her 2023 presentation on simulation-based teacher preparation demonstrates leadership in experiential learning tools, reflecting broader trends toward immersive technology in educator training.

Dr. Reed currently serves as ITED State Board Vice President and ICEC representative for 2023-2024, while participating in foundations supporting developmental delay initiatives. As doctoral faculty, she mentors EdD candidates in educational leadership and special education research methodologies.