Kelli Sanderson

Kelli Sanderson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Advanced Studies in Education and Counseling at California State University, Long Beach, within the College of Education. She serves as Program Coordinator for both the Master of Science in Special Education and the Graduate Certificate in Applied Disability Studies, demonstrating strong leadership in academic program development and administration.

Research Interests: Her research focuses on critical areas in special education, including family involvement for individuals with disabilities, postsecondary transition for youth with low-incidence disabilities, advocacy, and parent and student participation in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. Her work emphasizes equity, inclusion, and family-centered practices.

Publications and Research Trends: Dr. Sanderson’s recent publications (2019–2023) highlight a consistent focus on transition outcomes, family perspectives, and inclusive education models. Her work often explores qualitative and quantitative factors influencing educational and post-school success for individuals with disabilities, particularly through family and systemic supports.

• Scientific Awards:
• 2020 & 2016 Student and Early Professional Award – Gerontology and Families Interest Groups, American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• 2016 Chancellors Doctoral Incentive Program (CDIP) Travel Grant Awardee
• 2015 Doctoral Training Grant Recipient, Vanderbilt University
• 2015 CSU Chancellors Doctoral Incentive Program (CDIP) Awardee
• 2015 Peabody Graduate Honor Scholarship
• 2015 Peabody Dean’s Fellowship

Advising and Grants: As a program coordinator and active researcher, Dr. Sanderson likely mentors graduate students and oversees curriculum development in special education and applied disability studies. She has secured competitive fellowships and grants, including multiple CDIP awards and Vanderbilt fellowships, supporting her doctoral and early professional research.

Labs and Teams: While no formal lab is mentioned, her collaborative publications suggest active participation in research teams focused on inclusive education, family support, and transition services. Her virtual community conversation methodology indicates engagement with participatory and community-based research approaches.