Jill Castek
Jill Castek is a professor in the College of Education at the University of Arizona, where she is widely recognized for her expertise in literacy education and digital literacies. With a career in education spanning nearly three decades, she has remained deeply committed to strengthening public education and supporting the teachers who shape students’ lives. Her academic work focuses on the evolving nature of literacy in a digital world, including how technology, culture, and communication intersect to influence learning and meaning-making.
Throughout her career, Jill has contributed extensively to research, scholarship, and professional leadership in the field. She serves as co-editor of the Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy, sits on the executive board of ProLiteracy, and is actively involved with organizations such as the Literacy Research Association and the American Educational Research Association. Her research and leadership emphasize collaboration, cross-cultural learning, and bridging the gap between K–12 classrooms and higher education. She is also proud to have co-edited the forthcoming International Handbook of Research and Digital Literacies, an all-women collaborative effort designed to elevate diverse and emerging voices in the field.
At the core of Jill’s work is a belief that literacy is fundamental to critical thinking, learning, and opportunity. She uses her role in higher education to mentor educators, support teacher development, and foster inclusive, community-centered approaches to scholarship. Known for her collaborative spirit and commitment to nurturing others, Jill continues to influence the future of literacy education by championing innovation, equity, and the power of educators to make a lasting impact.
• University of Connecticut- Ph.D.
• California State University - East Bay- M.S.
• University of Pittsburgh- B.A.
• Alumni Award from California State University
• University of Arizona Award for Support of Bilingual Children and Their Teachers (Maria Ucrez Award)
• Jewel Lewis Distinguished Professor of Literacy at the University of Arizona (2 years)
• International Literacy Association
• Literacy Research Association (LRA)
• American Education Research Association (AERA)
• ProLiteracy
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to continually following my passion and collaborating with other colleagues. I'm always finding ways to continually push the field forward into new directions, so innovation and new innovations are really important to me. It's about staying committed to what you believe in and working together with others who share that vision.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was to be yourself, follow your heart, and don't apologize. This has guided me throughout my career and helped me stay true to my values and passions even when facing challenges.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering education to be bold, follow your passions, and express your creativity. I think finding your passion and having the wherewithal to see it through, even in the hardest and most challenging of times, is crucial. Don't be afraid to stand up for what you believe in and let your unique voice be heard.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is the rise of artificial intelligence, which is reshaping education and literacy while offering new ways to advance our mission. At the same time, the growing presence of women in leadership is creating space for more community-oriented, listening-centered approaches to scholarship and collaboration.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me both professionally and personally are community, being grounded in good scholarship, and collaboration. I believe in working together with others, building strong communities of practice, and ensuring that everything I do is rooted in solid research and thoughtful work.