Lauren Collins is an Associate Professor at San Diego State University whose work centers on the identification and dissemination of evidence-based practices in special education, particularly for students with emotional and behavioral needs. Her research focuses on positive, preventive approaches to improving student behavior and fostering meaningful teacher-student relationships in inclusive classroom settings. Dr. Collins has authored multiple peer-reviewed articles, including several in the premier practitioner journal in the field, TEACHING Exceptional Children. She is the author of the book Improving Student Behavior and Cultivating Meaningful Relationships: A Teacher’s Guide to Positive and Preventive Approaches in Inclusive Classrooms. She also serves as Vice President of the Council for Exceptional Children's Division for Emotional and Behavioral Health. She has delivered over 50 professional presentations at national conferences, sharing practical strategies and research-based insights with educators and fellow researchers. Beyond academia, Dr. Collins consults with school districts to support the implementation of effective strategies for students with disabilities and collaborates with families to navigate special education services and supports.