FPG Leadership
FPG Director
Samuel L. Odom, Ph.D.
Dr. Odom research has focused on the needs of people with developmental disabilities. He is nationally recognized for his work with preschool children, peer social relationships, autism spectrum disorder and school readiness.
Dr. Odom returns to UNC where he was the William C. Friday Distinguished Professor of Child Development and Family Studies from 1996 to 1998 and led the effort to establish a Ph.D. program in early childhood, literacy and families. From 1999 to 2006, he coordinated Indiana University's special education program and was the Edward and Mary Lou Otting Professor.
Dr. Odom, a Nashville, Tenn., native, earned three degrees from the University of Tennessee before receiving his doctorate in special education from the University of Washington in 1982. In addition to UNC and Indiana, he has served on the faculty at Vanderbilt University.
Senior Scientists
- Donna Bryant
- Margaret Burchinal
- Virginia Buysse
- Frances Campbell
- Richard Clifford
- Mary Ruth Coleman
- James Gallagher
- Deborah Hatton
- Joanne Roberts
- Debra Skinner
- Pascal Trohanis
- Patricia Wesley
- Pamela Winton
