Heather Coffey

Dr. Heather Coffey is a Professor of English Language Education and Director of the UNC Charlotte Writing Project at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Her work focuses on critical literacy, urban education, and bridging theory-practice gaps in teacher training. She has received multiple teaching awards, including the Bank of America Teaching Excellence Award (2020) and AERA honors (2016, 2021).

Education:

• Ph.D., University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (2009)
• M.Ed., University of North Carolina, Greensboro (2004)
• B.A., Elon University (1998)

Research Focus: Dr. Coffey's research emphasizes urban learner engagement, teacher preparation, and professional development for educators in challenging school environments. She champions service-learning as a pedagogical strategy to connect theory with real-world practice.

Awards:

• 2021: AERA Service-Learning SIG Outstanding Submission Award
• 2020: Bank of America Teaching Excellence Award
• 2016: AERA Constructivist SIG Outstanding Submission Award

Professional Contributions: As a leader in teacher education, Dr. Coffey advocates for equitable teaching practices and has been recognized nationally for her commitment to service and pedagogical innovation.