Keonghee Tao Han

Dr. Keonghee Tao Han is an Associate Professor in the School of Teacher Education at the University of Wyoming, College of Education. She specializes in Literacy Education, Early Childhood Education, and ESL/Bilingual Education. Her research focuses on issues of diversity, social justice, and equity in education, particularly in rural and conservative communities. Dr. Han has held roles including AAPI Team Leader, DEI committee member, and has received awards such as the 2020 Mortar Board Top Professor and 2019 Outstanding Alumna from Sungshin Women’s University.

Dr. Han earned her Ph.D. in Literacy Studies from the University of Nevada, Reno, and holds additional degrees including an M.A. in TESOL, an Ed.S. in Higher Education from the University of Arizona, and a B.S. in English from Sungshin University, Seoul, South Korea.

Her research interests center on critical race theory in education, multicultural literacy, and the experiences of faculty and students of color in predominantly white institutions. She explores topics such as racial literacy in rural schools, the impact of culturally relevant texts, and strategies for fostering inclusive educational environments. Dr. Han’s work emphasizes the intersection of global citizenship, equity, and teacher preparation.

Recent publications address themes like allyship in education, the voices of students of color, intercultural understanding through virtual learning, and counternarratives of faculty of color in conservative settings. These works highlight her commitment to advancing social justice in educational practices and policies.

• Key Awards/Grants:
• 2020 Mortar Board Top Professor Award
• 2019 Sungshin Women’s University Outstanding Alumna
• 2017 Ellbogen Dean’s Excellence Research Grant ($10,000)
• 2015 UW Outstanding Researcher Award
• 2000 Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Fellowship

Advising and grants include mentorship of over 30 graduate and undergraduate students and leadership in initiatives like the Collaborative Online Learning Across Borders (COLAB) program. She has secured grants for global literacy projects and cross-cultural education collaborations with institutions in Fiji and South Korea.

Dr. Han’s service contributions span DEI committees, international leadership roles, and advocacy for diversity in teacher education. Her work bridges theory and practice, aiming to empower educators and students in diverse contexts.