Michele L. Vanasse

Michele L. Vanasse serves as Dean of Education and Behavioral Science and Associate Professor at Houghton University, where she integrates Christian faith with vocational practice in teacher education. Her academic leadership spans curriculum development, faculty mentoring, and Indigenous education initiatives.

Education:

• Ph.D in Education – Curriculum Studies (Teacher Education and School Improvement) | University of Massachusetts Amherst
• MSEd Learning Development | Montana State University – Northern
• BA Elementary Education and Biblical Studies | Trinity Bible College

Her research centers on Reflective Practice and Native American Education, examining how culturally responsive frameworks enhance K12 professional development. She investigates faculty anxiety reduction through structured reflection and advocates for universal design in educational programming.

Scholarly output demonstrates consistent focus on assessment innovation and faculty development, with recent work analyzing mid-semester evaluation processes to improve teaching efficacy. Her publications bridge theory and classroom application across higher education contexts.

Awards:

• Marquis Who’s Who recognition
• K. Patricia Cross Future Leaders Award nominee
• University of Massachusetts Graduate Fellowship
• Two-time College Educator Vision Award recipient
• Who’s Who among American Educators
• Harlem Public Schools Teacher Excellence Award

She actively mentors teacher candidates through undergraduate inclusive education courses and graduate literacy programs, emphasizing spiritual formation alongside pedagogical excellence. Her professional development workshops serve K12 institutions nationwide, particularly focusing on Native American student engagement.