Gloria Ladson-Billings, known for her groundbreaking work in the fields of Culturally Relevant Pedagogy and Critical Race Theory, will begin a four-year term as president at the Academy’s annual meeting starting November 10, 2017.

The National Academy of Education advances high quality education research and its use in policy formation and practice. Founded in 1965, the Academy consists of U.S. members and foreign associates who are elected on the basis of outstanding scholarship related to education. Since its establishment, the Academy has undertaken research studies that address pressing issues in education, and its members are also deeply engaged in professional development fellowship programs focused on the rigorous preparation of the next generation of scholars.

“I look forward to the opportunity to lead what is the premier assemblage of education scholars in the world. In a time when our nation and world are facing critical challenges on so many issues, I am excited about the possibilities for bringing insights from education research and practice to bear on real world problems,” said Ladson-Billings.

Ladson-Billings succeeds Michael Feuer, Dean of the Graduate School of Education and Human Development at The George Washington University. The Academy’s president is elected by its members.

“It is a great honor and pleasure to pass the gavel to my colleague Gloria Ladson-Billings, whose commitment to research for improved education is legendary and whose passions for equity and excellence will surely advance our Academy and our field,” said Feuer.

Gloria Ladson-Billings is the Kellner Family Distinguished Professor of Urban Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction and faculty affiliate in the Department of Educational Policy Studies at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She was the 2005-2006 president of the American Educational Research Association. Ladson-Billings’ research examines the pedagogical practices of teachers who are successful with African American students, and she also investigates Critical Race Theory applications to education. She is the author of the critically acclaimed books The Dreamkeepers: Successful Teachers of African American Children and Crossing Over to Canaan: The Journey of New Teachers in Diverse Classrooms.