Rebekah E. Piper earned her Ph.D. from the University of Nevada Las Vegas with an emphasis in Literacy Education and Cultural Studies, International Education, and Multicultural Education (CSIEME).  Prior to earning her doctorate, Dr. Piper was a kindergarten teacher in Historic West Las Vegas, Nevada where she had a unique connection with children, families, and the community. "Piper" as she is affectionally known in the community, served as a consultant for the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools Program; training multiple young adults to work with children during a six-week summer literacy program across the United States. Dr. Piper works closely with community organizations advocating for strong literacy experiences for all and currently serves as the Secretary for the Texas Association for Literacy Educators (TALE). Dr. Piper's commitment to advancing equity in education is evident in her teaching, research, and ability to engage in meaningful ways with individuals representing a variety of cultural experiences and backgrounds. Her primary research interests include pre-service teacher education, children’s literature, multicultural education, identity development through children's literature, and early literacy. 

Dr. Piper teaches undergraduate and graduate course work in literacy education and serves her community by working with organizations that promote literacy and service oriented projects.