Michelle Pierce

Michelle Pierce serves as Interim Dean of the School of Education and Associate Dean in the College of Arts and Sciences at Salem State University. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in French from Wellesley College, a master of arts in teaching in foreign language education from the University of Pittsburgh, and a doctor of education degree in literacy, language, and cultural studies from Boston University.

Her research focuses on early college programs and the high school/college transition for under-represented students. Publications highlight performance assessments in literacy methods courses, bilingual education, and teacher preparation. Her work spans literacy instruction, educational equity, and cultural contexts in education.

Scientific Awards:

• Fulbright Scholarship to Chile (2009)
• HERS (Higher Education Resource Services) program (2011)

Dr. Pierce's grants and research projects emphasize systemic support for marginalized students. Her professional presentations at conferences like the American Educational Research Association and American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education address literacy teaching practices and assessment validity.