Denise A. Soares, Ph.D., is Assistant Dean, Director of Graduate Studies, Professor of Special Education, and Interim Director of the National Center for School-University Partnerships at the University of Mississippi. She earned her B.S. in elementary education with a specialization in special education from Texas State University and her master’s in administration and supervision from University of Houston and her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Texas A & M University in College Station, Tx.
Dr. Soares served as a classroom teacher and administrator for 18 years, as well as a consultant for public schools and parents. Her research focuses on applied and practical experiences in academic and behavior interventions for at-risk students, as well as examining the efficacy of those interventions in classroom settings where teachers have competing time demands.
Dr. Soares is involved in the local school districts, where she prepares educators for the complexities and demands of teaching students with exceptionalities. Dr. Soares is dedicated to special education and bridging the gap between research and practice. She has authored or co-authored numerous articles, books, and chapters.
She earned the School of Education Outstanding Researcher Award in 2016 and the Outstanding Service Award in 2018.