Ellie D. Brown

Ellie D. Brown is Professor of Psychology at West Chester University, where she directs the Early Childhood Cognition and Emotions Lab (ECCEL) and co-directs the REACH Lab studying arts in childhood. A clinical psychologist, her research examines child development amid poverty-related adversity and arts/mindfulness intervention efficacy.

Brown's NIH/NEA-funded work demonstrates how arts integration in Head Start programs improves cortisol regulation and school readiness. Her research identifies protective factors like structured routines, emotion knowledge, and musical engagement that buffer economic hardship effects on neurophysiological development.

She serves as advisor to PBS Kids®, Sesame Workshop's Grow Up Great® initiative, and federal arts research agendas, translating findings on arts-based interventions into policy recommendations.