Brief Overview
I have spent decades at the intersection of child development research and classroom practice, including 25 years in university teaching, research, and academic leadership. Over the years, I have taught child development, learning theory, educational psychology, family studies, and early and middle childhood education. My work bridges academic research and real-world application, from university classrooms and laboratory schools to direct engagement with families and educators. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how children's development, learning, and well-being are shaped by their individual needs, family relationships, and everyday environments.
Engagement with Children, Families, & Educators
Worked directly with teachers, families, and children to apply research in real classroom and home settings. Provided institutional oversight of university laboratory school operations, connecting developmental research with classroom and daily practices.
I have worked directly with families navigating behavioral, emotional, and developmental concerns throughout my career, and continue to do so through BrightEugene today.
Academic Leadership
Served as Department Chair, Undergraduate Program Director, Graduate Program Director, and Early Childhood Program Coordinator. Oversaw faculty development and curriculum planning centered on human development, family science, special education, and inclusive practices. Also chaired college curriculum committees and led initiatives in curriculum development, academic program review, learning outcomes assessment, and educational improvement.
Liaison for the Future Professoriate Program, training the next generation of university faculty to maintain rigorous standards in teacher education and child development research.
Research Contributions
- Published Author: Authored a Korean-language parenting book and contributed chapters to scholarly books on child development and education.
- Peer-Reviewed Research: Published extensively in peer-reviewed journals on parenting, child development, family relationships, and children's learning.
- Professional Presentations: Presented research and led workshops at national and international conferences and professional gatherings.
University Faculty Experience
- • Syracuse University — Human Development & Family Science | 17 years
- • University of Louisville — Teaching & Learning
- • Texas Tech University — Curriculum & Instruction
- • Illinois State University — Child Development, Child Development, Early Childhood & Elementary Education
Education & Honors
Doctor of Education with Distinction, Illinois State University.
MA & BA, Educational Psychology, Ewha Womans University.
A prestigious fellowship recognizing academic excellence and commitment to equity in education.
Recognizes faculty whose scholarship directly serves and engages the broader community.
Recognizes outstanding mentorship and contribution to graduate student development.