Dan Zhang

Dr. Dan (Dalun) Zhang is a Professor of Special Education and Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs at Texas A&M University, where he also directs the Center on Disability and Development. His work focuses on improving transition outcomes for youth with disabilities, with $36M+ in external funding and over 86 peer-reviewed publications.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Special Education, University of New Orleans (1998)
• M.Ed. in Special Education, University of New Orleans (1994)
• M.A. in Educational Theory, East China Normal University (1987)
• B.A. in Education, East China Normal University (1983)

Research Interests: Dr. Zhang’s research centers on enhancing transition from school to adulthood for individuals with disabilities. Key themes include self-determination, culturally responsive practices, employment outcomes, and supported decision-making. His work emphasizes collaboration across educational, vocational, and policy sectors to address systemic barriers.

Grants & Projects:

• PI for Texas A&M’s Center on Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (2015–2020)
• PATHS Program: Inclusive employment training (2010–present)
• Leadership training initiatives like Project LEAD and LEAP
• Clinical tools like the Diagnostic Adaptive Behavior Scale

Awards:

• 2020 AUCD George S. Jesien Award
• 2013 Community Benefactor of the Year
• 2013 PATHS Empowerment Award
• 2005 Outstanding Faculty in Research (Clemson University)

Leadership: Served as President of AAIDD’s Division on Career Development and Transition, and held leadership roles in AUCD and CEC. Active in editorial boards for journals like Journal of Disability Policy Studies.

Advocacy: Promotes disability inclusion through initiatives like the Texas Youth Leadership Forum and supported decision-making frameworks. His work bridges research, practice, and policy to drive systemic change.