Hiromi Masunaga

Hiromi Masunaga is a Professor in the Department of Advanced Studies in Education and Counseling (ASEC) at the College of Education, California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). She served as Chair of the ASEC department from Spring 2016 to Fall 2021 and has been a faculty member since 1999, progressing from Assistant Professor to full Professor in 2011. Her role includes program coordination, leadership in curriculum development, and active university service.

• Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, University of Southern California (1997)
• MS in Educational Psychology, University of Southern California (1994)
• Graduate Certificate in Gerontology, University of Southern California (1998)

Her research focuses on the life-span development of human cognitive abilities and how expertise develops across the lifespan. She investigates the factors that facilitate advanced expertise and effective teaching practices that promote optimal learning. Her work bridges cognitive psychology with educational applications, particularly in adult and lifelong learning contexts.

Dr. Masunaga has been recognized with multiple awards, including the CSULB Outstanding Professor Award in 2021 and 2011, and was a National Winner in the 100Kin10 Research Design Competition in 2013. She has held leadership roles in university governance, including membership in the Academic Senate, Curriculum and Educational Policies Council, and various college and departmental committees.

• CSULB College of Education Outstanding Professor, Service (2021)
• CSULB Leadership Fellow, Cohort IV (2016)
• National Winner, 100Kin10 Research Design Competition (2013)
• Outstanding Professor Award, California State University, Long Beach (2011)
• Certificate of Recognition, California State Legislature, Senator Lowenthal (2011)
• Presenter, Women's Research Colloquium, Sponsored by CSULB President's Commission on the State of Women (2011)

She has actively mentored students and led academic programs, particularly as Program Coordinator for the MA in Education with a focus in Educational Psychology. Her campus leadership includes service on the Faculty Council, Graduate Committee, Curriculum Committee, and chairing search and evaluation committees. She is deeply involved in initiatives aimed at empowering students and improving educational outcomes through evidence-based practices.

Dr. Masunaga has facilitated program evaluations and contributed to teacher preparation policy at both college and university levels. Her interdisciplinary background in psychology, education, and gerontology informs her holistic approach to educational development and cognitive growth across the lifespan.