Angela Owens is the director of the Glass Family Research Institute for Early Childhood Studies and works with early childhood and special education teacher candidates at NMSU’s College of Health, Education and Social Transformation.
Her research interests include caregiver experiences with the special education process, early childhood education and inclusivity for all children. She said her interests stem from the importance she places on taking the time to stop and listen to those around her.
“Being in this field has been an honor, and I take pride in elevating the needs of those who are most marginalized and vulnerable,” Owens said. “As a queer, Afro-Latina mother, I love connecting and supporting our unique borderland communities.”
Owens holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, dual master’s degrees in instructional specialist in early childhood and educational administration, and a Ph.D. in literacy/biliteracy from the University of Texas at El Paso. She was named director of the research institute in 2021.
Her experiences range from teaching in K-12 and special education settings to serving as a professional development consultant, a liaison for families with children with special needs, and an elementary campus administrator.