Hannah Kennedy

Hannah Kennedy is an Assistant Professor in Teacher Education at Samford University's Orlean Beeson School of Education. With a decade of experience in Early Childhood Special Education and prior adjunct roles at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of West Alabama, she brings extensive practical expertise to her academic work.

Degrees:

• PhD in Early Childhood Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham
• MAE in Early Childhood Special Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham
• BA in Communicative Disorders & Early Childhood Education, University of Alabama

Kennedy's research focuses on inclusive practices in early childhood special education, emphasizing teacher preparation through service learning, faith integration, and special education methodologies. Her scholarship explores assessments and strategies to enhance educational outcomes. Recent publications highlight literacy, professional character, and inclusivity, including a 2023 practitioner's guide on content area literacy and book chapters addressing faith-based professional development.

Honors and Awards:

• Most Outstanding Alumni Award, University of Alabama at Birmingham (2021)
• Most Outstanding Doctoral Student, University of Alabama at Birmingham (2020)
• Selected for Doctoral Student Leadership Cohort, National Early Childhood Personnel Center (2019-2020)
• Teacher of the Year Nominee, Cherokee Bend Elementary School (2021-2022)
• Teacher of the Year, Westside Elementary School, Demopolis City Schools (2017-2018)