Faheemah N. Mustafa

Professor innovating in the area of educational equity and youth development, Faheemah N. Mustafaa serves as an Assistant Professor in the School of Education at the University of California-Davis. Her scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in understanding and enhancing the academic performance and holistic well-being of historically marginalized youth. With a keen interest in the identity-related beliefs and pedagogies of K-12 and postsecondary educators, Professor Mustafaa's work aims to foster environments where all students can thrive. Her research extends into the realms of pedagogy, beliefs, identity development, and perceptions, with a particular focus on how these elements intersect to influence educational outcomes. Professor Mustafaa has been instrumental in securing grants to explore the experiences of Black girls and college women in robotics and engineering programs, shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these groups in STEM fields. In addition to her research, Professor Mustafaa is actively involved in mentoring the next generation of scholars. She is currently considering Ph.D. applicants to join her lab, where students can engage in cutting-edge research that bridges theory and practice. Her commitment to educational equity is reflected in her dedication to developing teacher identity and supporting educators in creating inclusive and empowering learning environments. Professor Mustafaa's work is characterized by a deep commitment to social justice and a belief in the transformative power of education. Through her research and teaching, she strives to create a more equitable educational landscape, where all students have the opportunity to succeed and develop their full potential. Her contributions to the field are not only academic but also practical, as she seeks to implement strategies that can be adopted by educators and policymakers alike.