Dr. Dana Suskind

Professor

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Biography

Dana L. Suskind, MD, is a Professor of Surgery and Co-Director of the TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health at the University of Chicago. Her research focuses on foundational brain development, particularly in childhood, and aims to bridge the gap in cognitive disparities among children. Suskind's work emphasizes the importance of parental engagement and knowledge in promoting language development and reducing achievement gaps. She developed the Scale Parent/Providers’ Expectations Knowledge (SPEAK) tool to assess and enhance parental understanding, influencing behavior change interventions. Dr. Suskind has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and has been featured in major media outlets, including the New York Times and National Public Radio, for her contributions to early childhood development. Her book, "Thirty Million Words: Building a Child's Brain," advocates for the critical role of communication in childhood growth. She has received several awards for her dedication to research and education within her field, reflecting her commitment to improving outcomes for children through evidence-based practices and community involvement.

Research Interests

Experience

Co-Director

— Present

TMW Center Early Learning + Public Health • Chicago, IL

Co-director of an initiative aimed at improving early childhood development through research and community engagement.

Founder Director

— Present

Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program • Chicago, IL

Established and led a program focused on cochlear implantation for pediatric patients.

Founder Director

— Present

Thirty Million Words • Chicago, IL

Founded a program aimed at improving early childhood language development through parental involvement and education.

Awards

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John D. Arnold, MD Mentor Award

#

AG Bell Chairman’s Award

#

Senior Faculty Scholar

#

Making a Difference Award

Requirements for University of Chicago

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:104
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree Writing sample Candidate statement
Application Checklist
  • Candidate Statement
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of Recommendation (3)
  • Writing Sample
  • Application Fee
Specialization Notes

Department of Philosophy