Mabel Rivera, Ph.D.

Dr. Mabel Rivera is an Associate Professor in the Department of Specialized Educational Programs at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. With a rich background as a former elementary and special education teacher in the public school system, she brings invaluable expertise in teaching children at risk of learning difficulties. Dr. Rivera has delivered numerous presentations and contributed extensively to research in the areas of instruction and assessment of English learners and students with exceptionalities.

In her current role, Dr. Rivera teaches both graduate and undergraduate courses within the educator preparation program, focusing on the characteristics and methods for teaching diverse learners. She is adept at delivering instruction in both in-person and online formats, ensuring that future educators are equipped to address the varied needs of their students. Beyond her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Rivera serves as the Director of Accreditation and Reporting for the Educator Preparation Program, where she is responsible for developing and submitting comprehensive reports to the state Department of Public Instruction, the US Department of Education, and the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Dr. Rivera's commitment to the field of education extends beyond the classroom. She is actively involved with the North Carolina Council for Exceptional Children, where she has served as Past President and continues to mentor future educators as a Faculty Advisor for local student chapters. Her research interests are primarily centered on the education and prevention of academic difficulties in diverse learners, underscoring her dedication to improving educational outcomes for all students. Through her work, Dr. Rivera continues to make significant contributions to the field of education, advocating for effective instructional practices and promoting equitable learning opportunities.