D’Jaris Coles-White, Ph.D.

D’Jaris Coles-White brings a passion for teaching and mentorship to her role as program director of the developing M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) program. “Being part of a college that is both rooted in tradition and forward-looking made McDaniel a natural fit for me,” she says. She earned a B.S. in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Columbia College, an M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Ph.D. in Communication Disorders from University of Massachusetts Amherst.

I was always drawn to the medical and science fields but knew medical school wasn’t the right path for me. A family friend shared a booklet about speech-language pathology, and I was immediately hooked because the field allowed me to stay connected to science while also making a direct impact on people’s lives. After earning my clinical degree and working across different settings, I pursued a Ph.D. with a focus on child language disorders and autism, inspired in part by my neurodivergent son. One of the things I value most about this profession is its flexibility. I’ve worked in private practice, hospitals, long-term care, schools, and now academia. Since earning my doctorate, my research and teaching have centered on supporting autistic individuals across the lifespan.

Most of my career has been in academia, spanning large research universities and smaller private colleges. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to conduct research, publish, and secure external funding, including grants from the National Institutes of Health and the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. Just as important to me has been mentoring students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, because I believe it’s vital for students to see themselves reflected in their field and to know that they belong.

I was drawn to McDaniel because of its strong commitment to student-centered learning, mentorship, and community. After working in a range of academic settings, I wanted to be at a place where teaching, research, and personal connection all carry equal weight. I was also inspired by McDaniel’s vision for the future, particularly its development of the new M.S. in SLP program. The program will expand opportunities for students in Maryland and beyond, while addressing critical workforce needs.

I hope my students leave with a respect for neurodiversity, an appreciation for the strengths of individuals with communication differences, and the skills to advocate for inclusive practices that honor the intersectionality of each person, including their cultural background. More than just content knowledge, I want them to carry empathy, curiosity, and critical thinking into their professional lives. Above all, I want them to recognize the impact they can make, that their voices matter, and that they can be leaders in creating a more equitable and supportive world for individuals across the lifespan.