CRDLLA Advisory Board
Maria Coady, Ph.D.
Goodnight Distinguished Professor in Educational Equity, North Carolina State University
Dr. Maria Coady holds the position of Goodnight Distinguished Professor in Educational Equity at North Carolina State University, specializing in Multilingual Education. Her research, grounded in critical place-conscious education, explores multilingualism, bilingual education, and educator preparation in rural settings. Dr. Coady earned her PhD from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and has extensive international experience, preparing educators worldwide. Her scholarly work includes several books on bilingual education and multilingual policy, reflecting her commitment to enhancing educational practices for multilingual learners and their communities.
Ms. Margaret DeJesus
Compliance Coordinator, Bilingual, ESL, and Migrant Education, Bryan ISD
Margaret DeJesus, with over 15 years in education, currently spearheads Bilingual, ESL, and Migrant Education at Bryan ISD. Her expertise is fortified by a Master’s in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University. Margaret is renowned for mentoring ESL teachers across Texas and actively contributes to literacy and community initiatives. Her accolades include Bryan ISD’s Professional Specialist of the Year 2018 and Educator of the Year 2020 by the Hispanic Forum of Bryan/College Station. Margaret enjoys mentoring, reading novelas, and exploring culinary arts.
Dr. Joy Esquierdo
Interim Vice Provost and Professor of Bilingual and Literacy Studies, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Dr. J. Joy Esquierdo serves as Interim Vice Provost for Bilingual Integration and a Professor in the Bilingual and Literacy Studies at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. With a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Texas A&M University (2006), her academic journey is complemented by nine years of teaching in Texas public schools. Dr. Esquierdo’s research focuses on bilingual education, gifted education, and cognitive development in bilingual children. She advocates for dual language programs to advance academic opportunities for bilingual Latinx students. She has co-authored significant texts on bilingual education and content literacy development.
Dr. Christian Faltis
Chair, Education Department and Professor of Bilingual Education, Texas A&M International University
Dr. Christian Faltis serves as the Chair of the Education Department and a Professor of Bilingual Education at Texas A&M International University. He holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Teacher Education with an emphasis in Bilingual Cross-Cultural Education from Stanford University. His academic career includes significant roles at Ohio State University and the University of California, Davis. Dr. Faltis is a recognized scholar in bilingual education, teacher education for emergent bilingual users, and critical arts-based learning. His contributions to the field include 26 books and over 80 scholarly articles.
Dr. Norma Guzman
Professor and Coordinator of Bilingual Education Doctoral Program, TAMU Kingsville
With 25 years of experience, Dr. Norma Guzman is a venerated bilingual educator and a coordinator at TAMU Kingsville. Her extensive background includes a Ph.D. in Culture, Literacy, & Language and she has made significant contributions to bilingual education and equity in academia. Dr. Guzman’s expertise encompasses program planning and academic advising.
Dr. Susan Hopewell
Associate Professor and Program Chair, Director of Literacy Squared, University of Colorado Boulder
Dr. Susan Hopewell specializes in Equity, Bilingualism, and Biliteracy at the University of Colorado Boulder. She leads Literacy Squared, an influential biliteracy initiative from pre-K to 6th grade, and focuses her research on enhancing biliteracy through cross-language strategies. Dr. Hopewell has authored significant texts on biliteracy practices and has extensive experience as a bilingual educator and literacy coach. Her work combines theoretical insight with practical application in bilingual classrooms.
Ms. Julia Norsworthy
Coordinator of Emergent Bilingual Program, College Station ISD
Julia Norsworthy currently enhances dual language instruction at College Station ISD. She champions a collaborative approach to education that prepares students comprehensively for future challenges. Her district’s commitment to student success and academic excellence underlines her educational philosophy.
Dr. Tracy Spies
Associate Professor of Multilingual Learning, University of Nevada Las Vegas
Dr. Tracy Spies focuses on creating optimal language environments for multilingual learners, particularly those with disabilities. Her research, supported by various federal programs, seeks to ensure equitable access to education. Dr. Spies balances her academic pursuits with significant contributions to educator preparation and professional development.
Dr. Sharon Ulanoff
Professor of Bilingual/Multicultural and Literacy Education, California State University Los Angeles
Dr. Sharon Ulanoff, a specialist in bilingual and literacy education, employs her expertise at California State University Los Angeles. Awarded the President’s Distinguished Professor Award, her work is pivotal in addressing educational inequities. Sharon’s significant contributions include serving on numerous editorial boards and her leadership in educational research.
Dr. Wayne Wright
Associate Dean and Barbara I. Cook Chair of Literacy and Language, Purdue University
Dr. Wayne Wright’s career spans roles from bilingual teacher to Associate Dean at Purdue University. His research addresses bilingual education and language policy, impacting educational practices in the U.S. and abroad. A Fulbright Scholar, his work has significantly shaped language and literacy education policies.