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Nonie K. Lesaux is the Roy Edward Larsen Professor of Education and Human Development and the Dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE). Appointed in March 2025, she previously served as the academic dean of HGSE from 2017 to 2021. Lesaux’s research primarily focuses on strategies and innovations aimed at improving learning opportunities and literacy outcomes for children and youth. Her teaching emphasizes literacy development, early learning, and leading system-level change. Lesaux actively engages in partnerships with school districts and communities, investigating aspects such as language, reading, social-emotional development, and classroom quality. She has led significant research-practice partnerships with large urban school districts to enhance literacy rates and served as a co-editor for the Handbook of Reading Research (2022). Moreover, she has contributed to state literacy initiatives and has received several prestigious awards, including the William T. Grant Scholars Award and the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. Lesaux has also held important leadership roles, including chairing the Massachusetts Board of Early Education and Care from 2015 to 2022, and is a board member of the National Academy of Education and the Spencer Foundation. Additionally, she serves as an expert consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice, focusing on educational opportunities.
Harvard Graduate School of Education • Cambridge, MA
Leading the Harvard Graduate School of Education, focusing on innovations in education and literacy.
Harvard Graduate School of Education • Cambridge, MA
Oversaw academic programs and initiatives to enhance educational standards and practices.
Administered via Harvard Griffin GSAS; encompasses PhD in Education.