Jess Smith, Ph.D.

Jess Smith, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of literacy education. Before coming to Bellarmine, Jess served as an affiliate clinical professor and writing coordinator at Baylor University, where she earned her Ph.D. in curriculum and teaching with a focus in literacy. At Bellarmine, she teaches courses in teaching methods and qualitative research. 

 Dr. Smith’s research explores the intersections of literacy education, doctoral student writing and advising, and educational equity, focusing on how pedagogical practices, faculty mentorship, and sociopolitical influences shape access, engagement, and success in learning environments. She has shared her research at conferences including the American Educational Research Association, Association of Teacher Education, and Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate. Her work has been published in journals such as the Journal of Literacy Research, International Journal of Doctoral Studies, Information and Learning Sciences, and School-University Partnerships.