Biography
Dr. Kate Strater is an associate professor of education at 青涩直播, where she serves as chair of the education department and director of the Life and Career Studies program, Calvin's inclusive postsecondary education program. Her work centers on creating educational communities where all learners are valued, supported, and able to flourish.
Dr. Strater teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in special education, inclusive teaching, and educational leadership. Before joining 青涩直播, she served in public education leadership roles in Kentucky, including director of exceptional student services and special education coordinator. Throughout her career, she has partnered with students, families, educators, and community organizations to expand opportunities for inclusion, belonging, and meaningful participation.
Her scholarship focuses on inclusive postsecondary education, intellectual and developmental disabilities, self-determination, disability and faith, and the transition from school to adult life. Through her research, teaching, and community engagement, she seeks to advance opportunities for people with disabilities to participate fully in educational, vocational, congregational, and community settings.
Education
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership (2016)
Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY
Director of Special Education Certification (2016)
Campbellsville University, Campbellsville, KY
M.A. in Special Education, Severe Needs-Cognitive (2005)
University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO
B.M. in Vocal Performance and German (2001)
Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI
Research
Dr. Strater's current work explores how educational institutions and communities can foster belonging and flourishing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her projects include:
- Leadership of 青涩直播's Life and Career Studies program, supporting inclusive college experiences for students with intellectual disabilities.
- Research examining the impact of inclusive postsecondary education on student self-determination, goal attainment, and quality of life.
- Collaboration with national and regional organizations to expand access to inclusive higher education opportunities.
- Scholarship and community engagement at the intersection of disability, faith, worship, and congregational life.
- Work with educators and institutions seeking to create more inclusive practices and environments for diverse learners.
Selected Publications
- Strater, K. E., Kurkechian, M., & Weber, K. (2024). Goal attainment and quality of life through inclusive college: Three years of progress. Journal of Inclusive Postsecondary Education 5(2). 1-28.
- Dombrowski, E. L. & Strater, K. E. (2021). The inclusion journey: From program to identity. In L.E. Swaner (Ed.), Leading insights (pp. 70 - 85). Association of Christian Schools International.
- Strater, K. E. (2021). A review of the research on inclusive Christian education. In L.E. Swaner (Ed.), Leading Insights (pp. 38-50). Association of Christian Schools International.
- Strater, K. E. & Elfers, E. M. (2019). The emergence of self-determination in young adults with intellectual disability participating in Project SEARCH. AILACTE Journal, 16, 45-66.
