As an Associate Professor of Literacy Studies at the University of Nevada, Reno, Dr. Rachel Salas is widely recognized for her ability to bring people together to explore new ideas in education. She holds a deep commitment to making literacy education better for everyone, focusing her research particularly on supporting English Language Learners and helping teachers feel prepared to work with students from all kinds of backgrounds. Dr. Salas is especially dedicated to looking at how race, culture, and language show up in education, often through the stories found in children's books. Her journey in teaching has taken her through various universities and schools across different states, where she has consistently shown a gift for inspiring those who are becoming educators themselves. Here at the University of Nevada, Reno, she currently teaches courses that delve into adolescent literacy and the world of children's literature, weaving in insights from her own research to create a richer and more engaging learning experience for her students. Beyond her work in literacy, Dr. Salas also has a genuine enthusiasm for STEM education. She's actively worked to build bridges between reading and science or technology, notably by starting a robotics club for elementary school children. This wonderful initiative not only sparks a love for technology and engineering in young minds but also helps them build essential skills like thinking critically and solving problems. A core principle guiding Dr. Salas's work is her unwavering dedication to making education inclusive and fair for everyone. She truly believes in the power of learning to change lives and is focused on helping educators feel ready to support every student, no matter their background. Her efforts in both research and teaching continue to make a meaningful difference in the field, especially in how we approach literacy and STEM. Through her academic contributions and her involvement in the community, Dr. Salas has become a respected voice in conversations about making education more equitable and innovative. Her impact isn't just theoretical; she actively seeks out ways to put strategies into practice that directly benefit both students and teachers. Dr. Salas remains a passionate champion for positive change in education, inspiring those around her with her clear dedication and vision.