Michelle Purdy

Michelle Purdy is an Associate Professor of Education at Washington University in St. Louis, affiliated with African & African-American Studies, Urban Studies, the Center for the Study of Race, Ethnicity, & Equity, and History. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Studies from Emory University and a B.A. and M.A. from Washington University. Her research focuses on the history of U.S. education, African American educational experiences, school desegregation, and policy analysis. Her award-winning book Transforming the Elite (2018) examines Black students' navigation of racism in 1960s–70s private schools, highlighting ongoing debates about school choice and equity. Purdy’s work bridges historical scholarship with contemporary issues, appearing in venues like History of Education Quarterly and American Journal of Education. She is a frequent speaker at universities and institutions, addressing topics such as HBCUs, race in admissions, and academic freedom.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Educational Studies, Emory University
• M.A. in History, Washington University
• B.A. in Educational Studies & African/African-American Studies, Washington University

Research Interests: Purdy’s work centers the intersection of race, education, and policy. She uses archival research, oral histories, and policy analysis to explore how Black students shaped educational landscapes during the Civil Rights Movement. Her current research examines the legacy of desegregation efforts and their implications for modern education reform.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2017 Outstanding Graduate Student Faculty Mentor Award

Grants & Collaborations: Purdy is part of the Center on Urban Research and Public Policy, contributing to interdisciplinary studies on urban education. She collaborates with institutions like the Washington Post and Teen Vogue to disseminate scholarly insights to broader audiences.

Labs/Teams: Affiliated with the Center on Urban Research and Public Policy and the Center for the Study of Race, Ethnicity, & Equity at Washington University.