Faculty Spotlight: Laura Crowe

1. What is your role in the College of Education? 

I serve as the East Alabama Regional Inservice Center Director. The mission and role of the East Alabama Regional Inservice Center (EARIC) is centered on supporting and deepening teaching and learning across the region through high-quality professional learning for educators. Throughout our region, we serve 15 local school districts. By providing meaningful professional learning that strengthens instructional practice and leadership, we help educators flourish in ways that directly impact classrooms—ensuring that when educators learn and grow, students are the ultimate beneficiaries through stronger instruction, deeper engagement, and greater academic success.

2. How long have you worked at Auburn?

I have worked for Auburn for 5 years in my current role. Before going into education 21 years ago, I worked in the chemistry labs here at the university for approximately 2 years.

3. What are some new initiatives you are working on now?

Our National Board Certification Road Tour has been a meaningful opportunity to partner with local districts to spotlight educators who have recently earned National Board Certification. During each visit, we meet educators in their districts and present them with a National Board Medal of Distinction, recognizing the dedication and commitment it takes to reach this milestone. We present these medals at board meetings or in their schools with their students and colleagues.

Many of these teachers previously traveled to Auburn as members of our National Board cohort, so this tour allows us to go back into their districts and honor each educator alongside their colleagues and communities. At the same time, we are collaborating with district leaders to design professional learning for administrators focused on developing instructional playbooks and supporting teams made up of educators from multiple generations, helping leaders strengthen collaboration and instructional leadership across the region.

4. What is a part of your job you are especially proud of?

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve educators as they continue shaping their expertise and advancing in their instructional practice each day. It is an honor to support teachers and administrators through meaningful professional learning as they build capacity, expand their impact, and strengthen student learning in schools. When educators learn, students succeed. I am especially thankful for the chance to recognize and highlight educators whose dedication and commitment make a lasting difference that elevates the teaching profession.

5. What is a fun fact about yourself?

A fun fact about me is that I am energized by learning, and curiosity naturally fuels my love of travel. Traveling allows me to experience new cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking that I could never gain from a book alone. It reminds me that there are many ways to approach challenges and celebrate successes, and those experiences ultimately enrich both my personal and professional life.