Dr. Melissa Siller earned her Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching at the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a concentration in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Her passion for education and participatory community problem solving began with three transformative years as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ecuador. Prior to joining UIW, Dr. Siller spent the last 20 years as a field supervisor, teacher educator, researcher, instructional coach, undergraduate and graduate instructor, and elementary and secondary teacher in the San Antonio and surrounding areas. Her professional interests and experience include designing, coordinating, and supporting programs and field experiences for teacher candidates to bridge theory with their developing practice.