Cultural Diversity Through Literature

Beverly Boals Gilbert

Dr. Beverly Boals Gilbert is a Professor of Early Childhood Education at Arkansas State University. She obtained her BSE, MSE, and Ed.D. from the University of Mississippi. Dr. Gilbert began her teaching career in Mississippi in the public school elementary grades and in the University of Mississippi Demonstration Kindergarten. Her career in higher education has included administration and leadership in the development of BSE and MSE degree programs in early childhood and elementary education. She was instrumental in obtaining and implementing the ASU-sponsored preschool programs for at-risk children which were established in target schools throughout the Arkansas Delta.

Lina Owens

Dr. Lina L. Owens' professional career includes experiences in public and private school education and in higher education. Dr. Owens earned her BA from Harding University, and MA and Ph.D. from the University of Mississippi. Her experiences include 12 years of teaching primary grades in public schools and serving as a principal of a private school for 3 years. For the past 15 years, she has worked in the university arena. She currently serves as Associate Professor at Arkansas State University, where she teaches early literacy courses, children's literature, and instructs pre-service teachers in Professional Development Schools. She frequently serves as a consultant, presenting in the field of early literacy and reading education. Dr. Owens' knowledge and love of children's literature is evident in every area of her professional and personal life.