Faculty Profile: Amanda Randall

Name: Dr. Amanda Randall

Title & Department: Teaching Assistant Professor, Literacy Studies and Special Education

Can you share a little about your background and what brought you to ECU’s College of Education?

I earned my undergraduate degree from East Carolina University, my master’s degree in education and applied behavior analysis from the University of Massachusetts, and my doctorate in special education from West Virginia University. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D), I have worked in public and private schools, clinical and community settings, nonprofit organizations, and higher education. Returning to ECU feels like a full-circle opportunity to bring those experiences home and help prepare the next generation of educators and behavior analysts.

What are your primary teaching and research interests?

I am especially passionate about preparing behavior analysts to become effective leaders, exploring the responsible use of artificial intelligence in clinical settings, and building stronger collaborative teams. Social connection will always be central to my work—not simply teaching social skills, but creating meaningful opportunities for people to belong, participate, and build authentic relationships.

What excited you most about joining the College of Education?

I am excited about helping build a high-quality ABA program that serves eastern North Carolina. Our region needs more well-prepared behavior analysts, and this program has the potential to strengthen the quality and availability of services for children, families, schools, and communities throughout the area.

What do you hope students will take away from your classes?

I hope my students leave believing that every child can grow and learn. When we understand that behavior is communication, remain curious about what it is telling us, and provide the right support, we create opportunities for every learner to succeed.

What is something fun or unique you would like people to know about you?

My office is in a building where I took many of my child development courses as an ECU undergraduate, so being back feels wonderfully full circle. I am genuinely giddy about parking on Elm Street again—I used to park there and walk to class or to C.M. Eppes Middle School for field experiences. Some people get excited about fancy offices; apparently, I get excited about nostalgic parking!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love being outdoors—working in my garden, caring for my plants, or spending time with my children and spouse. I also enjoy traveling to new places and simply hanging out and laughing with friends.