PhD Candidate Kimberly Myck Invites Community to Dissertation Defense

PhD Candidate Kimberly Myck invites the Prescott College Community to attend her dissertation defense on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) via Zoom.

Kimberly shares, “This presentation represents the culmination of research, reflection, and professional practice during my doctoral journey at Prescott College. I am grateful for the guidance, mentorship, and learning that have shaped this work, and I am honored to be able share it with members of the Prescott community.”

The presentation will last approximately 45 minutes, followed by a 15-minute question-and-answer session. Guests are welcome to attend the presentation and participate in the discussion afterward.Completing this dissertation has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my academic and professional life. It reflects years of work as an educator, researcher, and advocate for the well-being of children and those who care for them. I look forward to sharing this work with the Prescott College community.

Dissertation Title: Professional Sustainability and Trauma-Informed Relational Practice in Early Childhood Education: A Mixed Methods and Autoethnographic Study

Trauma-informed care has become an increasingly important framework in education, yet one critical question remains: How do we sustainably support the educators who are asked to do this work every day?This study explores the intersections of trauma-informed relational practice, educator well-being, and professional sustainability. Through mixed methods research and autoethnographic inquiry, I examine how trauma-informed approaches not only influence outcomes for young children who have experienced adversity but also shape the experiences, resilience, and longevity of the educators who care for them.More than an examination of classroom practice, this research is an exploration of relationships – how connection, regulation, compassion, and reflective practice contribute to healthy learning environments for both children and adults. It also considers what it means to create educational systems where educators can continue to thrive while supporting others.The defense presentation has been designed in a conversational, story-centered style that weaves together research findings, professional experience, and personal reflection. Whether your interests lie in education, psychology, trauma-informed practice, sustainability, qualitative research, or simply lifelong learning, I hope you will find something meaningful in the discussion.Presentation DetailsDate: Monday, August 10, 2026

Join the meeting here:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88145006127?pwd=KgMB18NaU2Eb85jIhHaYSgBGBCGXqc.1