PCA’s Kim Stephenson Named University of Alabama Gladstone Scholar & Outstanding Gifted Ph.D. Student
PCA’s Academic Director Kim Stephenson is completing her doctoral studies in the area of giftedness/creativity at the University of Alabama and was recently recognized for her work. She was named a Gladstone Scholar for her research in supporting pre-service gifted teachers and gifted students in quality summer programs. Kim along with Dr. Jane Newman, College of Education professor, will work to collect and analyze data in partnership with schools in the Tuscaloosa area this summer.
“Kim is an outstanding doctoral student,” said Dr. Newman. “She’ll be an excellent addition to our Bauer Grant Team VII.”
In addition to this recognition, Mrs. Stephenson also received the Outstanding Gifted Ph.D. Student Award from the University of Alabama’s College of Education. She was nominated by the College of Special Education Multiple Abilities Department Chair and will be recognized as an outstanding student during the College of Education’s Honors Day Convocation.
As PCA’s Academic Director, Mrs. Stephenson is responsible for curriculum, educational initiatives, ensuring alignment of accreditation standards, and faculty professional development. She is currently piloting a Gifted Education program on campus as a new academic initiative for reaching and challenging students who need more from the classroom in an effort to expand differentiated learning to students.
Mrs. Stephenson is a state-certified gifted and special education teacher in grades K-12. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology, a master’s degree in Elementary Education, an Ed.S in Elementary Education and a special education certification from the University of Alabama.
