Dr. Megan Chaney
As a graduate of Fresno Pacific University, I have profound respect for this institution. I have experienced the best of Fresno Pacific University including the rigorous academic program, Christian values, and unmatched sense of community throughout the university. Serving as a faculty member within the university allows me the opportunity to interact with adult learners and prepare them to educate students with special needs. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow with the students, faculty, staff, and community with which I am blessed to serve.
Professional Experience: I have extensive experience working with and teaching individuals with special needs in the PK-12 educational context. I have also served as a special education Department Chairperson, Assessment Specialist, comprehensive high school Vice Principal, and middle school Principal in California’s Central Valley. I currently serve as an Associate Professor of Special Education, Special Education Division Chair, Undergraduate Minor in Education Disabilities Program Director, and Master of Arts Degree in Special Education Program Director. I have also served as a course author and instructor in these special education programs as well as a professor within general education teacher preparation programs.
Scholarly Interests: Special education teacher dispositions; Retention and recruitment of special education teachers
Honors and Awards: California Association of Student Leaders (CASL) State President: International Organization of Social Sciences and Behavioral Research (IOSSBR) Best Paper Award recipient 2019 and 2022.
Recent Publications: Chaney M. (2022, November). Building Inclusive Bridges: Increasing Administrator Capacity in Special Education Laws and Ethics. Presentation completed at the Council for Exceptional Children Teacher Education Division (CEC TED) National Conference, Richmond, Virginia.; Chaney, M. (2022, October) Examination of K-12 Administrator Perspectives: Exploration of Perceived Value of a Special Education Laws and Ethics’ Course Impact on Administrator Capacity. Presentation completed virtually at the International Organization of Social Sciences and Behavioral Research (IOSSBR) National Conference, Las Vegas, Nevada.; Van Boxtel, J. & Chaney, M. (2022, June) Essential Dispositions for Special Educators: An Examination of National Standards and Guiding Principles. Journal of the American Academy of Special Education Professionals (JAASEP).; Chaney, M. &Van Boxtel, J. (2021, March) Essential Dispositions for Special Educators: An Examination of National Standards and Guiding Principles. Presentation completed at the International Organization of Social Sciences and Behavioral Research (IOSSBR) National Conference, New Orleans, Louisiana.; Van Boxtel, J. & Chaney, M. (2019, November) Unmasking the Mystery of Essential Dispositions for Special Educators: An Examination of National Standards and Guiding Principles. Presentation completed at the Council for Exceptional Children Teacher Education Division (CEC TED) National Conference, New Orleans, Louisiana.
Recommended Reading: Morning Meetings with Jesus 180 Devotionals for Teachers by Susan O'Carrol Drake; A Grander Story an Invitation to Christian Professors by Rick hove and Heather Holleman
Favorite Bible Verse: Romans 12:12 ~ "Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer" (KJV)
Favorite Music: Country
Favorite Activities: Fishing, camping, traveling, and dance
Family Info: I am the mother of a beautiful daughter who keeps me on my toes and a parent to fur babies as well.
What Matters: Family and care/service to others in the Kingdom of God
Pet Peeves: Negativity and dishonesty
What I Like About FPU: I love the FPU community of believers and our commitment to service!