Stacy DeZutter

Stacy DeZutter serves at Millsaps College in the following capacities:

• Professor of Education and Psychology since 2008
• Director, Programs in Education
• Director, Community Engaged Learning

Educational background:

• Ph.D. in Education with specialization in the Learning Sciences, Washington University of St. Louis, 2008
• M.A. in Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Pittsburgh, 1993
• B.A. in Theatre and Media Arts, Rhodes College, 1990

Her research explores how social participation shapes learning and development, with core interests in sociocultural psychology, human creativity, early childhood/K-12 education, and active learning pedagogy. She uniquely integrates theatre arts to study group improvisation and democratic citizenship, examining how educational experiences cultivate societal engagement. This interdisciplinary approach bridges psychology, education, and performing arts to address real-world civic challenges.

Recent publications reveal a thematic focus on democratic citizenship in early education and distributed creativity systems, demonstrating consistent scholarly contributions across developmental psychology and arts-based learning frameworks.

Major recognitions include:

• Millsaps College Distinguished Professor Award (2023)
• Excellence in Teaching Award, Sciences Division (2020-2021)

As Director of Community Engaged Learning, she spearheads initiatives connecting academic coursework with community service, emphasizing experiential education and civic responsibility through structured partnerships. Her leadership in Programs in Education shapes curriculum development and teacher training across disciplines.