Crystal Bickford, Ph.D., MA
Crystal Bickford, Ph.D., MA, is an Associate Professor of English at Southern New Hampshire University, where she has been teaching and mentoring students for over 15 years. Her extensive experience in higher education spans roles including Director of Academic Services, Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies, Writing Program Coordinator, and Professor of English. She has taught a diverse range of courses, from developmental writing and business communications to graduate composition theory and public speaking, 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 and a Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy from Roberts Wesleyan University, where she graduated with distinction. Recognized for her 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.
• Master of Arts (MA) in English Language and Literature, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
• Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy, Roberts Wesleyan University
• 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
• European Association for Teachers of Academic Writing (EATAW) Council of Writing Program Administrators National Organization for Student Success College Reading and Learning Association – President
• New England chapter Nominated for the National Board for the Council of Undergraduate Research
• 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 the unwavering support of my parents. 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.
I also credit my resilience, especially after navigating workplace politics, enduring long commutes, and surviving a traumatic robbery four years ago. 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: “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 advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise young women entering academia to find mentors early—both inside and outside your institution—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 broken systems.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in academia right now include the integration and ethical use of AI, declining student preparedness following the pandemic, expanding teaching roles beyond the classroom, navigating workplace politics, and managing burnout from heavy teaching and commuting loads.
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. My upcoming book, From Both Sides of the Desk, exemplifies one of these opportunities—an innovative collaboration between faculty and students.
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, to adjust my teaching to meet the diverse needs of students, integrity in maintaining academic honesty and ethical leadership, service in supporting students holistically, and connection through building professional networks and personal trust.
Outside of academia, I also prioritize joy and grounding, especially through time in nature, kayaking, and spending time with my pets: Pecan and Cashew, my cats, and Flica, my American Cocker Spaniel.