What is your name and current title with the University of Montevallo?
Dr. Laura Bloom, professor of human development and family studies, faculty director of the Child Study Center and director of the Certified Family Life Education (C.F.L.E.) Program.
Where are you from and what city do you currently reside in?
I grew up in East Brunswick, New Jersey, and have lived in Pelham for 31 years.
If you hold any degrees, what are they in and from what schools?
My undergraduate degree is in home economics (child development and family relations) and education (K-3) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. I have a Master of Early Childhood Education and a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education from The University of Alabama at Birmingham.
How long have you worked here?
Fifteen years.
Did you hold any previous positions here? If so, what are they?
I began as an instructor in 2009 and have since been promoted to professor.
What brought you to Montevallo?
As the executive director of a child abuse prevention agency in Birmingham, we provided field experiences for several interns from UM through the Social Work Program. It became clear to me that working in a college setting would enable me to have an impact on a multitude of individuals in different age groups. Sharing my passion of working with and advocating for children and families is a huge motivation for my teaching.
What’s the best thing about working for Montevallo?
I have the dream job! I get to teach and mentor upcoming professionals in the field of human development and family studies, and at the same time, work with young children at the Child Study Center. These relationships, along with the incredible support I receive from my colleagues, keep me motivated and energized.
Do you have any interesting stories about one of your favorite experiences here?
Winning the 23rd Life Raft Debate for Family and Consumer Sciences in October 2019 was an amazing experience! I still hold the oar (it stands in the window of my office).
What’s your proudest accomplishment since being at UM?
The most meaningful accomplishment for me since being at UM has been the publication of an article through the National Council of Family Relations. Each issue of the NCFR Report features a “Family Focus” section containing research- and practice-based articles on that issue’s theme, which was “Families in the Shadows.” The article, “Placing a Child for Adoption and its Impact on Subsequent Parenting,” published in winter 2022, was a product of the initial research conducted for my dissertation. As an adoptee, one area of research for me has been understanding the perspectives of birthmothers — women who have placed a child for adoption.
Are you currently working on or have you recently completed any interesting projects?
Dr. William Harper-Hooper IV and I are in the process of completing a textbook chapter on the challenges and rewards of Black males in primary grades.
Why do you belong at Montevallo?
I believe I belong at Montevallo for many reasons, but primarily because of my desire to support students as they identify their gifts and talents to make a positive impact in the world. The opportunity to be a small part of their journey in this process is truly an honor.
Anything else you want to say?
“At the intersection where your gifts, talents and abilities meet a human need; therein you will discover your purpose.” – Aristotle
