COLLEGE PARK, MD (September, 2016) Betty Malen, a professor in the College of Educations Department of Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership, was honored as a Distinguished Scholar-Teacher at the University of Maryland Faculty and Staff Convocation on Sept. 14.
Betty Malen, a professor in the College of Educations Department of Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership, was honored as a Distinguished Scholar-Teacher at the University of Maryland Faculty and Staff Convocation on Sept. 14. Malen, center, poses with Mary Ann Rankin, senior vice president and provost, and President Wallace D. Loh. Credit: Mike Morgan Photography
Malen, who was recognized for her significant scholarly contributions to the field of education policy, has been teaching at UMD for more than 20 years.
“Through her highly influential research program, her excellence in teaching and mentoring, and her powerful ability to integrate scholarship and teaching in innovative and impactful ways, Professor Malen is the epitome of a respected and distinguished scholar-teacher,” Jennifer King Rice, associate dean for graduate studies and faculty affairs in the College of Education, wrote in a letter nominating Malen for the distinction.
As Malen described in a written statement about her work, her research focuses on how “education reforms affect the governance, fairness and effectiveness of public school systems.” Malen’s research has examined issues like decision-making power among school administrators, teachers and community members at the school level, as well as the impact of replacing teachers and administrators in struggling schools in the context of high-stakes accountability policies.
In 2006, Malen launched a partnership with Prince George’s County Public Schools, giving university graduate students a chance to build valuable research skills in a real-world environment while also providing participating schools with formal evaluations of educational programs.
“Dr. Malen’s award-winning research has brought precision and analysis to major education policy questions, tested a wide range of reforms, and helped shape national educational policy,” Mary Ann Rankin, senior vice president and provost, said at the convocation ceremony.
Malen is also well-regarded by her students, consistently receiving high course ratings.
“Professor Malen is recognized in our College as a rigorous and demanding teacher, but [also] one who cares about her students,” Rice wrote in her letter.
Malen, who has three decades of experience as an education researcher, earned her Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota.
"I am deeply honored by the Distinguished Scholar Teacher award,” Malen said.
“I am also deeply indebted to my colleagues and the scores of students who have inspired and strengthened my work, as well as to the Prince George's County Public Schools for inviting research teams to study major reform initiatives underway in that district. I have learned a great deal from my colleagues and students and from the administrators and teachers who work tirelessly to implement policies that might enhance the quality of educational experiences afforded all students in their care. This award is a tribute to their contributions to the collaborative research projects we have carried out, as much as it is a recognition of my scholarship and teaching."
Prior to transitioning to academia, Malen worked as a public school administrator.
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