Yaoying Xu

Dr. Yaoying Xu is a Professor and Doctoral Program Coordinator in the Department of Counseling and Special Education at Virginia Commonwealth University. As Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Graduate Studies at VCU School of Education, she oversees academic initiatives while actively teaching courses in developmental assessment, single-subject research methods, and research internships.

• Ph.D. in Special Education, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
• M.Ed. in Early Childhood/Special Education, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
• B.A. in English Language and Literature, Huazhong University of Science and Technology

Her research focuses on culturally and linguistically appropriate assessment and intervention, social-emotional development, school readiness, peer-mediated strategies, and family empowerment. She leads personnel preparation programs for early intervention and early childhood special education (EI/ECSE) and explores global educational reforms.

Recent publications highlight her work on social-emotional assessment frameworks, family-driven interventions for autistic students, cross-cultural studies on Chinese international students' mental health, and interdisciplinary training models. Her research spans special education, early childhood development, and global educational mobility.

• VCU First Class of National/International Recognition Award (NIRA) Scholar (2023)
• Dr. Deborah Ziegler Distinguished International Leadership Award (2022)

Dr. Xu has secured over $15 million in grants for special education research and personnel training. She serves as Associate Editor for the Journal of Child and Family Studies and Editor for Early Child Development and Care in Asia-Pacific regions, while directing VCU’s International Educational Studies Center.