Course Credits and References

 
 
 

JoAnn Luttman

Course Developer JoAnn Luttman (BS) began her professional career working in non-profit positions after earning her B.S.in Sociology with a minor in Religion and Philosophy.  She has years of experience working with addicts, molested children, homeless, MH/MR, sex offenders, poverty-stricken families, those struggling with major medical disorders, battered women, those with crisis pregnancies, adult victims of domestic violence and child abuse, felony offenders, and more. She’s advocated for animals, the environment, social justice, and the rights of any person who has been the victim of bigotry, injustice, and cruelty.  She believes in changing our own, individual communities and those around the world.  JoAnn has taken up the flag for victims of female genital mutilation, human trafficking, those with physical and/or mental disabilities, and individuals that are mistreated, discounted, ignored, forgotten, and maligned. She’s managed programs and staff, balancing the needs of the community with the resources of the organization.  JoAnn has worked in administration, writing and distributing press releases for upcoming fundraisers and screening and hiring applicants for new positions.  She has written grants, been awarded grants, then administered the grants, reporting back and ensuring compliance. At the core of every project she undertakes is a belief, a value in the mission of the program and of the organization itself.  
 

Dr. Deirdre Mithaug

Course Instructor
Dr. Deirdre Mithaug is an esteemed educator and expert in psychology, cognition, sociology, special education, and teacher education. With a BA in Psychology, dual Master's degrees, and a Ph.D. in Behavioral Disorders and Special Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, her academic credentials are impressive. Dr. Mithaug has a rich background in teaching and consulting at the college level, particularly in special education and education policy. Her practical experience includes roles as a special education teacher in NYC schools and an Associate Professor at St. John's University. She is also a prolific writer and researcher, focusing on special education, social psychology, and the study of disabilities, contributing significantly to both academic discourse and practical advancements in these fields.