Dr. Lauren A. Ryals is Assistant Professor of Music Education and Director of Clinical Experience and Practice in Music Education at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts. In these roles, she teaches undergraduate and graduate music education courses and mentors students through the clinical experience process to become certified, licensed music educators. She brings to her work a dynamic blend of K–12 teaching experience, university-level instruction, and research expertise.

Prior to joining the faculty at Rutgers, Ryals served as Director of Bands at Delaware Valley University, where she conducted instrumental ensembles and taught both undergraduate and graduate music and humanities courses. She previously taught instrumental and general music for over 15 years in the K-12 public school setting in her home state of Colorado.

Ryals earned her Ph.D. in Music Education from Temple University, where her research focused on trauma-informed music education. She also holds a Master’s degree in Music Education from VanderCook College of Music and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Colorado Boulder. In addition, she holds certifications in trauma-informed education and care.

A nationally recognized specialist in trauma-informed music education, Ryals’ research interests include trauma-informed pedagogy, social-emotional learning (SEL) in arts-based settings, and music teacher clinical practice training. She presents her research regularly at national and international conferences and is frequently invited to lead professional development sessions on trauma-informed teaching and emotional first aid in music classrooms.

Alongside teaching and research, Ryals remains active as a guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician. She is passionate about working with all musicians and educators to create inclusive, healing experiences, supporting both musical excellence and human connection.