Jennifer Carlson

Jennifer Carlson's interest in reading and writing began the day she received the book Little Women by Louisa May Alcott for her birthday. That novel changed her reading life and led her on a journey that began with Brainerd Community College (now Central Lakes College) where she was highly influenced by the well-known Joe Plut, who taught English and communications. Armed with an AA Degree, she attended Winona State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in English Education and a middle school teaching license. She received her master’s degree at Mankato State University where she researched how to work with college students who struggled with reading. Jennifer’s interest in literacy and research brought her to the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she earned her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in literacy and children’s literature. 

She has been in the School of Education at Hamline University for eight years where she teaches literacy courses in the master’s programs, K-12 reading license, and initial teaching license program. Currently, she serves as the Chair of Accreditation and Assessment. Prior to HU, she was an Assistant Professor and taught literacy courses at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for four years. Dr. Carlson was recently selected as an Ambassador by NAC&U and inducted in the Alumni Hall of Fame by Central Lakes College.