Bethany L. Scullin

Bethany L. Scullin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Early Childhood through Secondary Education at the University of West Georgia (UWG), where she has served since 2017. She holds a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction (specializing in Literacy and Urban Education) from Kent State University (2014), an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida (2008), and a B.S. in Elementary Education and Special Education from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania (2000). Her research focuses on how preservice teachers navigate discussions about race using diverse children’s literature to foster inclusive classrooms. She co-edits the Georgia Journal of Literacy and chairs the Georgia Association of Literacy Advocates (GALA), an affiliate of the International Literacy Association (ILA). Additionally, she serves as editor of GALA’s FOCUS newsletter and on the Notable Books for a Global Society award committee. Dr. Scullin teaches courses on literacy education, assessment, and diversity in literature, and mentors doctoral dissertation research.

• Education:
• PhD: Curriculum & Instruction (2010–2014), Kent State University
• M.Ed.: Educational Leadership (2008), University of South Florida
• B.S.: Elementary & Special Education (2000), Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
• Key Roles:
• Co-Editor, Georgia Journal of Literacy
• Chair, Georgia Association of Literacy Advocates (GALA)
• Editor, FOCUS (GALA’s newsletter)
• Member, Notable Books for a Global Society Award Committee
• Research Focus: Preservice teachers’ engagement with race through self-reflection and literature-based discussions, aiming to normalize conversations about race in elementary education.
• Teaching & Mentorship: Courses include Children’s Literature, Literacy Assessment, and Diversity in Young Adult Literature. She also mentors doctoral students through EDSI-9998 (Research for Doc Dissertation).