Our Leadership Team

Prof. Kenneth Springer, a distinguished developmental psychology and education scholar, earned his Ph.D. from Cornell University in 1990. He began his academic journey at Southern Methodist University’s Dedman College of Psychology. He later transitioned to the Simmons School of Education and Human Development in 2003, serving as an Associate Professor. Prof. Springer has taught various undergraduate and graduate courses, including child development, research methods, statistics, and program evaluation. His prolific career includes over 60 scientific publications, presentations, and six books. His research focuses on cognitive development and academic achievement across various age groups, socioeconomic statuses, and cultural backgrounds.

Prof. Springer's dedication extends beyond academia through his extensive pro bono work with nonprofit organizations supporting families and children in poverty, primarily in Dallas. He has actively contributed to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas, Champions of Hope, Cornerstone Crossroads Academy, Dallas Bethlehem Center, Jubilee Park & Community Center, and the Parental Readiness & Empowerment Program. His roles have included board membership, program evaluation, grant writing, staff training, curricular advisement, and special event planning, successfully securing over $1 million in funding for these organizations.

Before retiring as Professor Emeritus of Education, In his administrative capacity at SMU, Prof. Springer held numerous leadership positions, including Chair of the Institutional Review Board, Chair of the Faculty Ethics and Tenure Committee, Chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning, and Secretary of the Faculty Senate. He has chaired 24 doctoral and 11 M.A. committees, and has organized multiple symposia for the Society for Research in Child Development.

Internationally, Dr. Springer has served as a Visiting Professor and Research Consultant at Zhejiang University of Technology in Hangzhou, China. He has also directed research symposia at Zhejiang University and Yanbian University and has been an invited speaker at numerous international conferences.

Currently, Prof. Springer is writing a book on the impact of statistics on society since the 20th century and publishes a weekly newsletter, “Statistified,” which interprets studies and data for the general public. His unwavering commitment to both academic excellence and community service marks him as a notable figure in his field.