Allison U. Nealy

Dr. Allison U. Nealy is a distinguished Clinical Professor and Department Head in the Department of Language and Literacy Education at the University of Georgia. She also serves as a Clinical Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Special Education. With a robust academic background and extensive experience, Dr. Nealy is a leading figure in the fields of special education and inclusive practices. Dr. Nealy's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Vermont in 1993. She furthered her education at the University of Georgia, earning a Master of Arts in Special Education in 1998, followed by a Doctorate in Reading Education in 2003. Her educational pursuits have laid a strong foundation for her career in academia and research. Her research interests are deeply rooted in special education, universal design for learning, and inclusive education. Dr. Nealy is particularly passionate about behavior disorders, learning disabilities, co-teaching, and collaborative instruction. Her work emphasizes differentiated instruction and the implementation of inclusive practices to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students. Throughout her career, Dr. Nealy has been recognized for her contributions to the community and the field of education. She was honored as the Athens Banner Herald 2013 Exceptional Community Member and was a finalist for the ATHENA Award by the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce in 2014. These accolades reflect her commitment to excellence and her impact on both the academic and local communities. In addition to her administrative and teaching roles, Dr. Nealy is actively involved in research and professional development initiatives. She collaborates with educators and researchers to advance the understanding and application of universal design for learning and inclusive education. Her work continues to influence educational practices and policies, making a significant difference in the lives of students and educators alike.