Honors College Faculty Fellow
Director of Clinical Experience and Practice, Assistant Professor of Music Education, Mason Gross School of the Arts
Dr. Lauren A. Ryals is an Assistant Professor of Music Education and the Director of Clinical Experience and Practice at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts. Dr. 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 of Music Education from VanderCook College of Music and a Bachelor's of Music Education from the University of Colorado at Boulder. In her roles at Rutgers, Dr. Ryals teaches undergraduate and graduate courses as well as mentors future music educators as they prepare for successful careers in the music classroom.
Dr. Ryals' scholarship explores how music education can foster well-being, belonging, resilience, and meaningful learning for both students and teachers. Her research focuses on trauma-informed pedagogy, social-emotional learning, teacher well-being, and music's role in flourishing individuals and communities. Dr. Ryals collaborates with Carnegie Hall’s Learning & Engagement programs on national initiatives exploring music, well-being, and teacher professional learning. In 2026 she was awarded a Faculty Fellowship with Music Will, supporting innovative approaches to popular music education for higher education teacher training programs. She presents her work regularly at national and international conferences and leads professional development for schools, universities, and arts organizations.
Alongside her teaching and research, Dr. Ryals remains active as a guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician. She is passionate about helping educators create inclusive, creative, and joyful music classrooms where musical excellence and human connection thrive together.