Shauna Adams, professor of early childhood education and executive director of UD's Center for Early Learning, has been honored by the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education with a national award for the significant impact of her research on the field of teacher education over the last decade.

“Dr. Adams’ commitment to teacher education and all her accomplishments make her an ideal candidate for the 2022 AACTE Margaret B. Lindsey Award,” said Lynn M. Gangone, AACTE president and chief executive officer. 

She will receive the award at the association's March 6 annual meeting. 

“Dr. Shauna Adams is an outstanding representation of all that the award represents. She has conducted research in the field of early education for decades," said Ali Carr-Chellman, dean of the University of Dayton School of Education and Health Sciences. "Her publications and grants have resulted in innovative program development and have informed developmentally appropriate practices for early childhood preservice teachers, practitioners, administrators and policy makers.” 

Adams oversees the Bombeck Family Learning Center, a top-rated, demonstration school that serves Miami Valley families. Under her direction, the Bombeck Center provides access to services and education to a diverse population of children and families. Her scholarship reflects her commitment to advancing the quality of programs for families faced with challenges of poverty and marginalization.

Her work has garnered more than $1.2 million in grant funding and she has published dozens of journal articles and curriculum series. Her book, Developing and Administering a Child Care and Education Program, now in its 10th edition, is one of the top-ranked textbooks in the field. 

Adams’ work and research have advanced the profession by shaping the development of child-centered assessments, early learning and development standards, and teacher licensure requirements in early childhood education. She developed five certificate programs, including the Infant and Toddler Specialist Certificate, an online program for graduate and undergraduate students, and the Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy program.

AACTE is a national alliance of educator preparation programs and partners dedicated to high-quality, evidence-based preparation that assures educators are profession-ready as they enter the classroom.