In the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology and Special Education:
Allison Cascarilla (she/her/hers)* - Assistant Professor – Fixed Term - Ph.D., Michigan State University
Supporting teachers’ decision-making
“My research supports teachers who work with students who engage in challenging behavior, informs the behavioral consultation practices of specialists working with teachers of students who engage in challenging behavior and improves the overall outcomes of students receiving behavioral support through the behavioral consultation model.”
Elizabeth Cloude (she/her/hers) – joining MSU in January 202 - Assistant Professor - Ph.D., University of Central Florida
Making the benefits of learning accessible to all
“The heart of my research is situated in learning analytics, learning sciences, instructional design and educational technology. My overarching objective is to pioneer intelligent and adaptive learning technologies that bolster the accessibility, inclusivity and overall quality of digital education for everyone, supporting diverse learning needs and reducing learning exclusion and gender inequality. Educational technologies bring to bear capabilities that not only shatter physical barriers to education via digital learning, but the mechanics built into learning systems can be customized to support diverse learning needs. The impact of this work can guide instructional design and augment just-in-time interventions that promote effective teaching and learning practices.”
Alyssa Voort (Uher) (they/them/theirs) - Assistant Professor – Fixed Term - Ph.D., Michigan State University
Improving disability-affirming special education
Erin Werth - Outreach Specialist - Master’s of Social Work, University of Michigan
Erin Werth’s journey in mental health advocacy started when she dedicated 11 years to the development and implementation of Baby Court in Genesee County, Michigan, a vital initiative for the well-being of vulnerable children. As a foster parent turned adoptive parent, she understands the importance of stable and nurturing environments for children. Her personal experiences fuel her commitment to advocate for infants, young children and other vulnerable populations, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to thrive. She continues that work at MSU where she provides leadership across several research projects aimed at improving mental health service delivery for Michigan children.
In the Department of Kinesiology:
Ben Goerger - Assistant Professor – Fixed Term - Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Developing future allied health science professionals
Jackie Goodway (she/her/hers) – joining MSU in January 2025 - Professor - Ph.D., Michigan State University
Promoting early years physical literacy
“My research is focused on addressing health disparities and developmental delays in young children from under-resourced communities. I partner with children, families and schools to implement motor skill interventions to promote the motor development and physical activity of young children. By implementing my SKIP motor skill intervention in schools and child cares I promote the motor development of children, support families in helping their child be more physically active and skilled, and give them an ‘Active Start’ to a healthy lifestyle. I also partner with early childhood teachers to up-skill their knowledge and skills in the area of motor development so that hey can better support the overall development of children in their courses. Overall, we hope to develop sustainable and enjoyable approaches to supporting young children’s health and motor development.”
Harvi Hart (she/her/hers) – joining MSU in January 2025 - Assistant Professor - Ph.D., University of Melbourne
Improving mobility by advancing knee health
“My research aims to have a significant impact by improving mobility and quality of life for individuals with knee injuries and diseases. By understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing targeted treatments, I strive to enhance patient outcomes through effective interventions that reduce pain and improve function. Additionally, my work seeks to contribute to the scientific understanding of knee conditions and their management, striving to address gender disparities in knee health and ensure inclusive treatment approaches. I highly value multidisciplinary and international collaborations, which drive innovation. Ultimately, my goal is to translate research findings into practical strategies to help individuals with knee conditions maintain an active lifestyle and achieve better overall health.”
Nicholas Mortensen (he/him/his) - Assistant Professor – Fixed Term - Ph.D., Concordia University Chicago
Enhancing athletic performance for all populations
“My professional experiences in strength and conditioning, corporate wellness, personal training, clinical exercise programming and higher education have influenced my ability to work with numerous populations to enhance their athletic capabilities and improve current conditions/ chronic disease risk. My research centers on improving performance through essential strength, conditioning and nutrition practices to help individuals achieve their individual, team and sports goals, especially when minimal or no equipment is available. The lack of funding and equipment should not be why an individual cannot achieve a healthy lifestyle and improve their athletic capabilities. My research will continue to educate and help underfunded individuals and teams.”
Sangchul Park (he/him/his) – joining MSU in January 2025 - Assistant Professor – Fixed Term - Ph.D., Texas A&M University
Understanding behaviors of sport stakeholders
“My central goal is to understand the behaviors of sport-related stakeholders. In this big agenda, my research line is categorized into three interests. First, I am interested in understanding what factors affect consumers’ decision-making in diverse sport-related contexts, such as fitness centers, personal training services, and sport-television watching. Second, I am interested in finding the way to maximize the revenue of both corporations and teams through integration marketing, such as sponsorships and brand-infused products. Finally, I am trying to find what factors direct sport organization’s efficiency and employees’ behavior.”
Alyssa Pollard-McGrandy (she/her/hers)* - Assistant Professor – Fixed Term - Ph.D., Michigan State University
Empowering engaged, adaptive learners
“Through my research, teaching and service, I aim to enhance athlete health and safety by refining concussion management practices. My work investigates the effectiveness of various concussion assessment and management techniques used by athletic training preceptors compared to non-preceptors. By focusing on both physical and psychological aspects of concussion care, I seek to improve diagnostic tools and treatment protocols. My goal is to translate research findings into practical strategies that advance concussion care, promote safer sports environments and ultimately benefit athletes.”
In the Department of Teacher Education:
Joel E. Berends (he/him/his) - Instructor – Fixed Term - Ph.D., Michigan State University
*Denotes an individual who joined our college in 2023-2024.