When Dr. Milsha Reid first visited Carlow University, she knew immediately she had found her professional home. Now in her third year as Program Director and Assistant Professor of Special Education, Dr. Reid has become a driving force in creating innovative pathways for aspiring educators, championing culturally responsive teaching, and building a department culture rooted in collaboration and care.
From leading service-learning trips abroad to launching new programs that address the nationwide teacher shortage, Dr. Reid brings a passion for service and community connection to everything she does. We sat down with her to talk about the importance of cross-department collaboration, why passion is essential in education, and what makes Carlow a place that will “love you” from day one.
What brought you to Carlow?
Before coming to Carlow, I was finishing up my PhD at Pitt. When I walked through the door for my interview, I immediately felt like this was my home — my work home. I’m just so happy that I’m here.
How would you describe the culture in the Education Department?
We’re like a little family. We work closely together, sharing ideas across special ed, secondary ed, art — always doing what’s best for our students, helping our programs grow, and making sure our students get what they need out of their time here.
Why is cross-department collaboration valuable for students?
It gives them multiple perspectives, which helps them define themselves as educators. For example, I’m leading a service abroad trip to Honduras with a professor from social work — I bring the education perspective, she brings the social work perspective, so students can have richer conversations about culture and community.
Why is having a culturally responsive approach to education so important?
Our public school classrooms are increasingly diverse — in culture, language, and ability. Teachers need to be prepared to teach students who don’t look like them, who have different abilities, and ensure that everyone has access to high-quality education.
What drew you to Carlow’s mission of service?
I believe that if you know better, you do better, and don’t gatekeep. Learning about the Sisters of Mercy was inspiring. As educators, we serve not just the student, but their family and the wider community, and Carlow has that service embedded in its mission.
How is Carlow responding to the teacher shortage?
We’re always innovating. We just received a $100,000 Pennsylvania Department of Education grant to help fill the teacher pipeline in special education. That’s funding an 18-month accelerated program for people who already have a bachelor’s degree, launching this May.
What makes Carlow students unique?
They have a passion for justice, curiosity, and a genuine desire to serve the community. That passion is everything in education. It helps you get through the tough times and celebrate the good ones.
What would you say to a prospective student who’s on the fence about Carlow?
Carlow is not like every other university. Carlow is special. If you want a place that’s going to love you, this is it.