Crystal Bickford, Ph.D., MA
Crystal Bickford, Ph.D., MA, is a Professor of English at Southern New Hampshire University, where she has been teaching and mentoring students for over 30 years. Her extensive experience in higher education spans roles including Director of Academic Services, Associate Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies, and Writing Program Coordinator. She has taught a diverse range of courses, from developmental writing, business communications, and public speaking to graduate composition theory and teaching writing, demonstrating her commitment to student development across all levels of learning. In addition to her academic career, Crystal has contributed her expertise to the American Red Cross as a Disaster Action Team Member and Supervisor and has served as a hospital chaplain. Her professional experiences beyond the classroom have enriched her approach to teaching, emphasizing empathy, communication, and leadership. Crystal’s research focuses on digital storytelling, undergraduate research, and post-pandemic learning, reflecting her dedication to exploring innovative methods to enhance student engagement and academic outcomes. Crystal holds a Master of Arts in English from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, a Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy from Roberts Wesleyan University, and a Ph.D. from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where she graduated with distinction and was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi. In addition to national conferences, Crystal has also presented research internationally, including in Ireland, Budapest, Hong Kong, France, and Sweden. Recognized for her publications, presentations, organizational skills, teaching excellence, and leadership in academic program administration, she is deeply committed to fostering meaningful learning experiences, guiding students and colleagues alike, and contributing to the evolving landscape of higher education.
• Past President for the Learning Assistance Association of New England
• Current President for the College Reading and Learning Northeast Chapter
• University of Massachusetts Dartmouth - Bachelor of Arts - BA, English Language and Literature/Letters
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Doctor of Arts, Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
• University of Massachusetts Dartmouth - Master of Arts - MA, English Language and Literature/Letters
• Roberts Wesleyan University - Graduate Certificated, Chaplaincy
• Karen G. Smith Special Recognition Award for Outstanding Service to the National College Reading and Learning Association
• Outstanding Contributions Award to the Learning Assistance Association of New England.
• Appreciation of Outstanding Service to the National Organization for Student Success
• Induction into Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society for Academic Excellence
• European Association for Teachers of Academic Writing
• College Reading and Learning Association
• National Organization for Student Success
• The National Council of Undergraduate Research
• European Writing Centers Association
• Management and Organizational Behavior Teaching Society
• American Red Cross – Disaster Action Team Member and Supervisor
• Hospital Chaplain
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, intentional networking, and my parents' unwavering support. My mentors, Rev. Jim Chase, Bernie Sund, and Rev. Bobby Girard, provided time, support, advice, and guidance throughout my adult life. I also credit my best friend, Cynthia Hermanson (deceased), who was my number one supporter in both personal and professional matters. Nearly every opportunity I’ve received—whether a new faculty role, an international presentation, or my upcoming book—has come from building and nurturing meaningful professional relationships. My journey has taught me that mentorship and community can carry you through moments when you don’t feel seen.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to stay true to yourself while always striving to be better.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise young women entering academia to find mentors early—both inside and outside their institutions—and to build a strong CV through service, presentations, and meaningful contributions. Stay flexible, as courses, students, and departments constantly evolve, and prepare for workplace politics by focusing on what strengthens your career rather than what drains it. Most importantly, say yes to opportunities even before you feel fully “ready.” Remember: your voice matters—don’t shrink yourself to fit into a broken system. Last, “Network even when you’re uncomfortable—you never know which connection will change your life.” This philosophy helped me rebuild confidence after my previous department was dismantled and opened doors to new academic communities, conferences, and leadership opportunities.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in academia right now include integrating and using AI ethically, addressing declining student preparedness following the pandemic, expanding teaching roles beyond the classroom, and managing burnout that affects me personally and professionally. At the same time, there are significant opportunities, such as leveraging AI-assisted learning models, engaging in cross-disciplinary research and international collaboration, emphasizing student success and inclusion, developing innovative undergraduate research programs, and participating in the growing global community of academic writing studies.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life include mentorship—investing deeply in the next generation of scholars—adaptability, adjusting my teaching to meet the diverse and changing needs of students, service in supporting students holistically, and connection through building professional networks and personal trust. Outside of academia, I also prioritize joy and grounding, primarily through time in nature, kayaking, traveling, new friendships, and spending time with my pets: Pecan and Cashew, my cats, and Fliclá, my American Cocker Spaniel.
Locations
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Webster, MA 03106