Jennifer N. Bacon

(she/her) Mentor

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Jennifer N. Bacon earned her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Maryland, College Park, and her MEd in Special Education from the University of Virginia. She is a Core Associate Professor and Chairperson in Education at Naropa University who has taught preschool-age children through graduate school domestically and abroad. She has also served as an Associate Dean for Naropa College. In addition to her experience in education, Dr. Bacon is an interfaith minister who is trained in the use of poetry therapy, spiritual guidance, and yoga. Deeply committed to addressing issues of overrepresentation in special education, racial and gender equity, child advocacy, and writing for social justice, she participates in a number of professional associations and mentoring organizations. Dr. Bacon has authored numerous articles including, "Writing in Solidarity: The Lived Experience of African American Adolescent Girls Writing Poetry," "Using Culturally and Inclusive Poetry Groups with Diverse Teens," "Culturally Responsive Poetry," and "Examining Teachers' Beliefs About African American Male Students in a Low-Performing High School in an African American School District." Her book Sisters in the Dissertation House: A Dissertation Narrative, addresses doctoral completion by women of color in underrepresented fields. Her book chapter, Academic Mothering: Black Women Mentors in Higher Education is currently in press. Her newest publication, a children’s book titled, I Am an Antiracist Superhero! will be published by Bala Kids in 2023. When not teaching and writing, she can be found exploring the beautiful mountains of Colorado with her husband, daughter, and dog.

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