Melissa Johnston

Melissa Johnston is a Professor in the Department of Educational Technology and Foundations at the University of West Georgia’s College of Education. She holds a Ph.D. in Library and Information Studies from Florida State University, an M.Ed. in Instructional Technology from the University of Georgia, and a B.A. in English from the University of Georgia. Her research focuses on school librarians as leaders in technology integration and global librarianship, with emphasis on culturally responsive teaching and STEM education support.

Johnston is Co-PI for two National Leadership Grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS): the REALISD Project (professional development for STEM-focused librarians) and the Online Ready Project (addressing gaps in culturally competent online instruction). She co-edits School Libraries Worldwide, the journal of the International Association of School Librarianship. Her work bridges theory and practice, emphasizing leadership models, digital literacy, and global educational equity.

Recent articles explore leadership enactment in school librarianship, culturally responsive online learning design, and STEM curriculum integration. She has received the 2024 IASL Best Conference Paper Award for her leadership theory research and a 2017 IASL award for STEM education work.

Teaching focuses on graduate courses in school library media programs, including strategic leadership, technology integration, and action research. She advises doctoral students through the EDSI-9998 Dissertation Research course and oversees practicum experiences (MEDT-7487).