Shana Oates

Shana Oates is an Assistant Teaching Professor at the University of Southern Mississippi. Her research focuses on equity, access, and inclusion for autistic students in higher education, challenging systemic ableism through critical disability theory.

Education: PhD in Student Affairs in Higher Education (Miami University, 2021); M.Ed. in Educational Administration (University of Missouri-St. Louis, 2004); BA (Webster University, 2001).

Research interests include re-conceptualizing disability in education, intersections of race and disability, and institutional barriers faced by students with autism. Prior to academia, she worked in student affairs roles such as academic advising and transition programs.

Teaches courses on student affairs administration, student development theory, and assessment practices. Maintains affiliations with the Association for the Study of Higher Education, American College Personnel Association, and Association on Higher Education and Disability.