Hye-Jin Park
CDS Associate Professor and Director of Evaluation
"As JoAnn Yuen is retiring on May 1, 2020, I would like to carry on her legacy as Associate Director of the Center on Disability Studies and do my best to contribute to its sustainability and growth"
Hometown
Busan, South Korea
Department
Center on Disability Studies
Department:
Center on Disability Studies (CDS)
Degree:
EdD, EdM, and MA from Teachers College, Columbia University; MA and BA from Yonsei University, South Korea
What is your current role at CDS?
Currently, I am an associate professor and the director of evaluation at the CDS and a principal investigator/co-PI of three U.S. DOE–funded projects and a UH SEED grant project. I am also involved with a few projects as an evaluator. I have been appointed as Associate Director of CDS, starting May 1, 2020.
How long have you been with the College of Education? Explain any other positions or roles you’ve held.
I started as a casual hire in May 2008, became an assistant professor in August 2008, and was then promoted to associate professor in 2014.
How did you become interested in the field of disability studies?
I became interested in the field as a result of my involvement in projects about assistive technology, IEP, Universal Design for Learning, and postsecondary transition for students with disabilities.
What are your research area interests?
My research areas include twice-exceptional students, culturally-responsive and differentiated STEM education, transition, and program evaluation.
Is there anyone in particular who inspired you along the way in your education or career?
Everyone I have met has inspired me in my education and career to some degree, and I am particularly grateful to Drs. Kelly Roberts and Kiriko Takahashi. They have been great mentors and dedicated colleagues throughout my years of employment at the CDS. I am also blessed to have talented project team members who have worked with me for many years.
What are your future visions and goals with CDS?
CDS has been my ‘ohana and the place to grow. As JoAnn Yuen is retiring on May 1, 2020, I would like to carry on her legacy as Associate Director of the Center on Disability Studies and do my best to contribute to its sustainability and growth. I would also like to strengthen our collaboration with all COE departments and research units.
I’m interested in learning more about a degree or certificate from the College of Education.