Seema A. Imam

Dr. Seema A. Imam is a tenured Professor at the National College of Education (NCE) within National Louis University (NLU). She specializes in Elementary, Middle Level, and Special Education, with a focus on technology integration, culturally responsive pedagogy, and Islamic education. Dr. Imam has held leadership roles, including Co-Chair of NCE (2016-2018), Chair of the Faculty Senate (2009-2010), and Co-Chair of the University Leadership Council. She teaches in NLU’s MA in Teaching programs and has advised multiple doctoral candidates.

Education:

• Ed.D. in Islamic Education (2015), Graduate Theological Foundation
• Ed.D. in Curriculum & Social Inquiry (2001), National Louis University
• M.A. in Educational Administration (1987), Northeastern Illinois University
• B.A. in Elementary & Learning Disabilities Education (1975), Northeastern Illinois University

Research interests include diversity in education, technology’s role in teaching, and Islamic schooling. Her work spans international curriculum development and advocacy for Muslim students. Notable publications explore student belonging in Islamic schools and pedagogical strategies for inclusive classrooms. Dr. Imam has received awards for leadership, including the 2024 ISNA Lifetime Service Award and the 2015 Mary McLeod Bethune Educational Leadership Award.

Her advising includes doctoral chairs for Azra Naqvi and Michael Kuhn. Grants and professional development efforts focus on Islamic school leadership and curriculum renewal. Dr. Imam co-founded an Islamic school and has consulted globally on educational policy, blending practical experience with academic rigor.

Labs/Teams: Active in the Islamic Schools League of America (ISLA), serving on its national board for over a decade. Leads workshops on curriculum integration and educational technology for international audiences.