Rita Suh

Rita Suh is a Lecturer in the Department of Teacher Education at the College of Education, California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). She serves as the UTEACH Program Coordinator and is deeply committed to equity, culturally and linguistically sustaining pedagogy, and supporting marginalized student identities in education.

Educational Background:

• B.A. in Sociology with a Minor in Education, UC Irvine
• Multiple Subject Credential, CSULB
• Reading Language Arts Specialist Credential, CSULB
• M.A. in Education, Option in Reading/Language Arts, CSULB
• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Concentration in Teacher Education in Multicultural Societies, USC

Her research and teaching focus on dismantling systemic inequities in schools, particularly through affirming the linguistic and cultural identities of African-American and Chicano English speakers, as well as advancing anti-racist and inclusive practices. She integrates these principles across her courses in child development, language arts, and cultural diversity.

The publications and presentations she has contributed to reflect a strong trend toward equity-centered education reform, identity exploration, and practical strategies for teachers. Her work emphasizes the convergence of culturally responsive practices and English learner instruction, the role of technology in foundational literacy, and the necessity of representation in educational leadership and policy.

Professional Engagement & Community Work:

• Conducts professional development for educators on equity and culturally sustaining pedagogy
• Hosts and participates in webinars and community dialogues on race, identity, and solidarity (e.g., Black and Korean solidarity, Asian American identity, transgender student support)
• Featured in CAAASA podcasts addressing leadership and miseducation

Dr. Suh mentors pre-service teachers through the UTEACH program and works to ensure that historically silenced voices in education are recognized as assets. She has no listed scientific awards but maintains an active presence in community-focused educational advocacy and reform.

Laboratories, Teams, and Programs: She leads the UTEACH program at CSULB, which prepares future educators with an equity-first lens. She collaborates across departments and with community organizations to promote inclusive teacher development and systemic change.