Sanford School director formally recognized for election to National Academy of Education
Stephen T. Russell honored at reception for 2025 honor
Stephen T. Russell (left), professor and director of the Sanford School, stands next to Alfredo J. Artiles, president of the National Academy of Education, at the November reception. Courtesy photo
Stephen T. Russell, director of the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics at Arizona State University, was honored in November for his 2025 election to the National Academy of Education — one of the highest distinctions in education scholarship.
Russell was elected in January 2025 and is among just over 330 academy members worldwide, including only seven in Arizona; the November reception formally recognized his election.
The National Academy of Education, established in 1965, is a scholarly society composed of U.S. members and international associates recognized for influential contributions to education. The academy supports rigorous research, examines major issues in the field and offers fellowship programs that prepare the next generation of education scholars.
A career defined by research with public value
Russell’s election reflects the national impact of his scholarship on adolescent development, LGBTQ+ youth and the social environments that influence young people’s well-being.
What distinguishes Russell’s work is its combination of empirical rigor and public relevance. His decades of work — spanning hundreds of authored and co-authored publications — have helped educators, policymakers and practitioners understand how family dynamics and broader social conditions shape learning and development.
In addition to his scholarly contributions, Russell has played a prominent role in national research and policy organizations, including service on the governing council of the Society for Research in Child Development, the board of directors of the Council on Contemporary Families and the observational study monitoring board for the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study.
His long-standing commitment to mentorship has been a through line in his career, having guided dozens of graduate students and early-career scholars — many of whom now contribute to education, social science and youth-focused research across the country.
“We are thrilled to see Stephen Russell recognized by the academy,” said Magda Hinojosa, dean of social sciences in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. “It is a remarkable achievement. Stephen is a truly exceptional scholar, teacher and leader.”
As director of the Sanford School, Russell leads programs focused on child development, families, community well-being and the social structures that shape everyday life. His election to the National Academy of Education highlights not only his individual accomplishments, but also the school’s commitment to advancing knowledge that serves the public, a core tenet of the ASU Charter.