The Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human, Health, and Human Sciences at Utah State University is excited to welcome several new faculty members for the 2026-27 academic year. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will enhance student learning, research, and community engagement.
New Faculty Members:
Kaytlin Clegg, Professional Practice Instructor, Nursing
- Background: 10 years as a registered nurse with a focus on medical/surgical nursing and infusion services.
- Education: B.S. in Nursing from Weber State University; currently pursuing an M.S. in Nursing.
- Focus: Passionate about mentoring nursing students.
Evin Daines, Professional Practice Assistant Professor, Psychology
- Background: Former school counselor with experience in juvenile justice and mental health.
- Education: Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from USU; M.Ed. in School Counseling.
- Focus: Advocating for the role of school counselors in mental health and student development.
Aaron Fischer, Associate Professor, Psychology
- Background: Previous full professor at the University of Utah; a licensed psychologist.
- Focus: Research in technology’s role in behavioral health and educational services.
David Fukuda, Department Head, Kinesiology and Health Science
- Background: 13 years at the University of Central Florida; a fellow of professional exercise associations.
- Focus: Human performance and exercise physiology research.
Lora Israelsen, Clinical Assistant Professor, Psychology
- Background: Licensed psychologist specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Education: Doctorate from UT Southwestern; trained in sleep and perinatal mood disorders.
Charles Jenks, Professional Practice Assistant Professor, Teacher Education and Leadership
- Background: 18 years in K-12 education, including roles as a principal and superintendent.
- Education: Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Wyoming.
- Focus: Research on educational leadership and well-being.
Dorie Noll, Clinical Assistant Professor, Speech and Hearing Sciences
- Background: Nearly two decades in education; specializes in early intervention for children with hearing loss.
- Education: Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Sciences.
- Focus: Family-centered approaches in deaf education.
Kellsie Prather, Assistant Professor, Human Development and Family Studies
- Background: Researching family dynamics, particularly in rural communities.
- Education: Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Science from the University of Georgia.
Lauren Ralston Ruesch, Assistant Professor, Speech and Hearing Sciences
- Background: Clinically licensed audiologist with research in auditory pathologies.
- Education: Doctorate in Audiology and Ph.D. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from UT Austin.
Amanda Stark, Assistant Professor, Speech and Hearing Sciences
- Background: Voice scientist and speech-language pathologist with clinical experience in voice disorders.
- Education: Multiple degrees in speech, language, and hearing sciences.
- Focus: Research in vocal production and performance demands.
The addition of these faculty members promises to enhance the educational experience at Utah State University, fostering a collaborative environment for students and faculty alike.
