Suzanne Galella
Transforming the Landscape of Special Education
At the heart of Marywood University’s School of Education, Suzanne Murray Galella, Ed.D., stands as a beacon of innovation and commitment. As an Associate Professor and Director of the School of Education, Dr. Galella not only brings extensive professional experience to Marywood, but also a profound dedication to transforming the landscape of education. Her career began with a strong foundation as a special education teacher in the Abington Heights School District, laying the groundwork for what would become a lifelong mission to foster equity and inclusion in education.
Dr. Galella's tenure in academia is marked by over two decades of service at Wilkes University in its School of Education, where she was both a tenured faculty member and a chairperson. Her leadership was instrumental in guiding the program through undergraduate teacher education and accreditation processes, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching.
A distinguished educator, Dr. Galella's passion for ensuring that all students have opportunities for social, emotional, and academic growth is evident in her advocacy for a growth mindset among teachers. Her work is characterized by a dedication to creating inclusive educational environments in which every student can thrive.
“The essence of effective education lies in the belief that every student possesses the potential to excel,” said Dr. Galella. “As educators, our role transcends the boundaries of traditional teaching; we are architects of the future, tasked with the responsibility to inspire, challenge, and cultivate a growth mindset in our students.”
Her academic credentials are as impressive as her professional achievements, with an Ed.D. from Wilkes University, an M.S. in Special Education from Marywood University, and a B.A. in English from the University of Scranton. Throughout her career, Dr. Galella has been recognized with numerous accolades, including Outstanding Advisor, Innovative Educator of the Year, and Educator of the Year, all of which underscore her significant contributions to the field of education.
Dr. Galella's vision for the future of education aligns with Marywood’s mission to provide a learning environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her leadership in the School of Education is a testament to our commitment to prepare educators who are skilled in their discipline, champions of social justice, and advocates for a more inclusive world.
“I am very blessed to be among the group of people I work with,” said Dr. Galella. “The School of Education’s faculty share the same growth mindset, for which I am very grateful. I can’t take credit for the group’s positivity, because it’s something I inherited. However, it is something I try to sustain.”
Marywood University is proud to have Dr. Suzanne Murray Galella at the forefront of our educational innovation initiatives, where her expertise and passion for education—particularly special education—continue to inspire today’s students on their journey to becoming tomorrow’s leading educators.