Dr. Emily Holm Tobin (Ph.D., '24, Learning Sciences and Human Development) is uncovering the surprising ways families learn and grow together in museums, zoos, and other informal spaces. With a unique background in history, archaeology and museum studies, she’s bringing fresh insights to early learning, showing how everyday family outings can nurture connection, curiosity and compassion.
Dr. Becky Clifford, a graduate of UW’s Leadership for Learning (L4L) program, has been named superintendent of the South Whidbey School District. With over 20 years in public education and a strong focus on equity, inclusion, and special education, Dr. Clifford brings compassionate, community-centered leadership to her new role. Read the full Q&A to learn more about her leadership journey, reflections on her time in Anacortes, and the impact of her L4L experience.
The University of Washington College of Education has selected Launch as the early learning provider and UW partner for the Rainier Valley Early Learning Campus (RVELC).
Mary-Elizabeth Merrill's journey from battling severe dyslexia to building a successful catering business, and raising seven children out of which four are neurodivergent, to founding Einstein Advocates & returning to higher education as a mother to equip herself with the right tools to understand how children learn and grow. Her life trajectory is a perfect example of passion, purpose & progress.
The College of Education made a powerful mark at the 2025 AERA Annual Meeting in Denver! From thought-provoking research presentations to a lively community celebration hosted by Dean Mia Tuan, it was a week of scholarship, connection and inspiration. Click through to explore photos and highlights from this unforgettable gathering.
From escaping a war-torn Vietnam as a young girl to leading a nonprofit that has empowered hundreds of students, Aimee Do's journey is one of resilience, purpose, and passion. As President of the Vietnam Education Fund, she has dedicated her life to education, equity, and community service — both in the U.S. and abroad. Her support of the Diversify the Educator Workforce initiative stems from deeply personal roots and a powerful belief in the role teachers play in shaping lives. Read Aimee’s inspiring story, her reflections on diversity in education, and the legacy she's building through service.
From her earliest days in the classroom to her current role shaping the next generation of school psychologists, Dr. Kawena Begay (M.Ed., Ph.D., ‘16, School Psychology) has always been driven by a simple yet powerful mission: to create inclusive spaces where every student can thrive. Her journey, from a first-grade teacher on the Navajo Reservation to a tenure-track professor at the University of Washington Tacoma, reflects her deep commitment to equity, culturally responsive practices and amplifying marginalized voices in education. Read more about Dr. Begay’s journey.
For nearly two decades, Dr. Janine Jones has been a beloved and influential leader within the UW College of Education — championing student success, guiding academic vision, and fostering a strong, connected community. Her impact will be felt for years to come, and we are deeply grateful for her dedication and transformative contributions.
In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings of best graduate schools, the University of Washington College of Education continues to be recognized as one of the nation’s top public education schools.
We are excited to welcome Savanna Carreño as the new Early Learning Scholarship Community Liaison! Originally from the Central Coast of California, Savanna holds a BS in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. She relocated to Washington in 2024 and is eager to connect with communities across the state to share information about the Early Learning Equity Scholarship. Savanna brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as the Programs and Development Manager at the California State PTA, where she managed a parent education program across schools and communities. She is passionate about education, equity, and supporting first-generation students, and we are thrilled to have her join the College of Education team.