Biography

Dr. Sandy Jean Hicks is an Associate Professor of Elementary Education at the University of Rhode Island, College of Education. Currently she is the program leader for the Elementary Education program has been a member of the faculty since July 1993. She taught elementary school in Southern California before pursuing her Ph.D. in Language, Reading, and Culture at the University of Arizona. Upon completion of her degree, she accepted a job at the University of Rhode Island as a member of the Elementary Education program team focusing on teacher preparation, social studies methods, and multicultural education. All three are a continuing focus.

Over her career Dr. Hicks has served in a leadership capacity in the Faculty Senate and URI-AAUP. She is committed to service to program, college, and University and takes an active role in accreditation and program assessment and change. She is committed to the preparation of teachers who are culturally responsive, able to help students empower themselves through their educational experiences to advocate for themselves and others, and to make a difference in the world.