Deborah Baldini

Deborah Baldini is a Teaching Professor at the Department of Language and Cultural Studies, University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL), with a career spanning over four decades. She serves as Associate Dean for the College of Arts and Sciences and founded the Inclusive Postsecondary Education program (formerly SUCCEED), which supports young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

• Education: B.A. and M.A. in Spanish Language and Literature (Washington University in St. Louis), Ph.D. in Educational Psychology (UMSL).

Research Interests intersect Spanish literature and educational psychology, focusing on second language acquisition, teacher beliefs, and inclusive pedagogical practices. Her work emphasizes curriculum development for marginalized learners.

Publications highlight her advocacy for inclusive postsecondary education, with recent articles addressing program implementation frameworks and equitable learning environments.

• Scientific Award: Honored by the Missouri Governor’s Council on Disability (2014) for her SUCCEED program.

Leadership Roles include directing the Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Education, Labor Studies Program, and multiple continuing education initiatives at UMSL.