Allison Gladfelter

Dr. Allison Gladfelter transforms traditional models of language acquisition and learning through her innovative research and teaching at Northern Illinois University. As an Associate Professor in Speech-Language Pathology, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her students and colleagues. Dr. Gladfelter is also the Co-director of the NIU Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language and Literacy, where she fosters collaboration across disciplines to advance understanding of language and literacy development. With a Ph.D. from Purdue University, Dr. Gladfelter is well-versed in both theoretical and practical aspects of language disorders. Her research interests are diverse and include typical and atypical language acquisition, language learning mechanisms, autism spectrum disorder, developmental language disorder, and the interactions between motor skills and language. Her work is instrumental in developing new strategies for diagnosing and treating language disorders, particularly in children. Dr. Gladfelter is licensed to practice in both Illinois and Indiana, and she holds a Clinical Certification in the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. This certification underscores her commitment to providing accurate and compassionate assessments for individuals on the autism spectrum. Her clinical expertise is complemented by her research, which seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of language learning and its disorders. In addition to her research and clinical work, Dr. Gladfelter is dedicated to educating the next generation of speech-language pathologists. She is known for her engaging teaching style and her ability to inspire students to pursue careers in speech-language pathology and related fields. Her courses often integrate the latest research findings, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of language development and disorders. Dr. Gladfelter's contributions to the field of speech-language pathology extend beyond the classroom and laboratory. She is an active member of several professional organizations and frequently presents her research at national and international conferences. Her work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, further establishing her as a leader in her field. Through her research, teaching, and clinical practice, Dr. Gladfelter continues to make significant strides in the understanding and treatment of language disorders. Her dedication to improving the lives of individuals with language impairments is evident in all aspects of her work, making her a respected and influential figure in the field of speech-language pathology.