Tia Walton-Walker, Ph.D.
Senior Coordinator, Early Learning Research Scientist
Dr. Tia Walton-Walker serves as Early Learning Research Scientist at the Lastinger Center for Learning. In this role, Tia will be coordinating research activities for its Early Learning Team. In addition, Tia will assist with early learning content development and evaluation.
Tia began her career as an autism early interventionist/clinician, community engagement coordinator, and research faculty member for the University of Michigan and Florida State University. Previously, Tia served as the Director of Research and Special Projects for the Children’s Forum in Tallahassee, where she conducted research and evaluation on early learning teacher professional development programs such as T.E.A.C.H., INCENTIVE$ Florida, Help Me Grow Florida, Florida Gold Seal Child Care Accreditation, Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) training, and Professional Development Registries.
Tia has a bachelor’s degree in Child Care and Community Psychology from Albertus Magnus College, a master’s degree in Developmental Psychology from Howard University, and a doctorate in Child and Family Studies with a specialization in Child Development and a minor in Program Evaluation. In her free time, Tia enjoys the beach, traveling with her husband, and exploring new foods from various cultures.