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Lee University’s Dr. Alex Sandoval recently earned his Doctor of Philosophy with a concentration in Special Education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.  

Sandoval’s dissertation was titled, “Peer-Mediated Interventions to Improve the Transition Behavior of Children and Young Adolescents with Disabilities: A Systematic Review of 50 Years of Literature,” which explored the literature available on how school-aged children with intellectual and developmental disabilities have benefited from peer support in developing improved transitions in classroom settings.  

“Knowing that I am able to contribute to the development of future teachers, and through this, the lives of children and individuals with disabilities, made the hard work and sacrifices worth it,” said Sandoval.  

Sandoval joined the Helen DeVos College of Education in 2010, where he currently serves as the interim chair of Lee’s Department of Early Childhood, Elementary and Special Education and an associate professor. Prior to Lee, he taught in the Georgia public school system for nine years as a special education teacher and autism consultant.  

Originally from Guatemala, Sandoval’s interests include cross cultural teaching opportunities in Latin America for Special Education candidates and increased disability awareness. He earned his Master of Education at the University of Missouri and his Bachelor of Science at Lee University.  

“The support and encouragement that I received from my family, colleagues, Lee University, and my professors at UTK throughout this process made getting to this point a reality,” said Sandoval.