From Roots to Research

In our fifth edition of the From Roots to Research series, we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Celia Oyler, Vice Dean for Teacher Education at Teachers College. Dr. Oyler’s work has been deeply rooted in collaboration with teachers, championing the transformation of general education systems to better serve students on the margins. Reflecting on her journey as a special education teacher turned researcher, Dr. Oyler emphasized the importance of “critical inclusivity” and the daily pedagogical moves that make learning accessible for all students. As she retired December 2024, Dr. Oyler leaves behind a profound legacy of compassion, equity, and system-level change. Her insights remind us that true inclusion requires rethinking the center, not just the margins, and remains a lasting inspiration to educators at Teachers College and beyond.

In our fourth edition of the From Roots to Research series, we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Jonathan Collins, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Education at Teachers College. Dr. Collins's work explores the allocation power within educational systems, examining innovative approaches such as participatory budgeting and community-centered school board meetings. During our conversation, Dr. Collins reflected on the critical gap between national policy debates and the needs of local educational communities. Dr. Collins also shared his personal journey, marked by resilience in the face of challenges and offered heartfelt advice to faculty and students at Teachers College. He concluded with a powerful message on striving to be the best version of oneself as a means to enrich public goods and inspire positive change.

In our third edition of the From Roots to Research series, we had the privilege to speak with Dr. Prerna Arora, Associate Professor of Psychology and Education and Director of the School Mental Health for Minoritized Youth and Families (SMILE) Research Lab at Teachers College, whose research has been deeply informed by her dedication to addressing mental health disparities, fostering community-based collaborations, and supporting historically marginalized populations. Dr. Arora’s journey offers invaluable insights into the world of academia and the transformative power of research.

In our second edition of From Roots to Research series, we had the privilege to speak with Dr. Thomas (Tom) Brock, Director of the Community College Research Center and Research Professor at Teachers College, whose research has been shaped by a commitment to addressing poverty, advancing education policy, and improving student outcomes through evidence-based reforms. Dr. Brock’s journey offers invaluable insights into the world of academia and research.

In our inaugural edition of From Roots to Research, we had the privilege to speak with Dr. Carol Hammer, a prominent scholar at TC, whose research has been shaped by her global experiences and dedication to supporting bilingual children’s development. From her early days as a speech-language pathologist to securing major research grants, Dr. Hammer’s journey offers invaluable insights into the world of academia and research.