Dr. Hayes is the education department’s resident expert in special education, a field to which she feels called by God. She has experience in the special education classroom and in inclusive education research.
Created for a purpose
Rooted in the belief that God created each of us for a specific purpose, Dr. Hayes is passionate about giving students with disabilities the opportunities and support they need to live out their God-given dreams.
Positive mindset
Dr. Hayes views special education through the lens of abilities, strengths and inclusiveness. She encourages Northwestern students to adopt a similar mindset, recognizing that each special education student has been called by God to use the gifts God has given them.
Joy seeker
Whether she is teaching in the classroom, traveling to new places, or spending time in nature, Dr. Hayes is intentional about finding joy in everyday life. She likes to capture these moments by sharing her “joy of the day” at the end of each class period and by taking at least one photo each day of something beautiful.
Heart for mission
Dr. Hayes is a member of the mission team at her church and has served on mission trips to Nicaragua and Columbia.
