Professor Hakeem has served Bay Path since 2019 as an adjunct instructor and lead practicum supervisor for the University's Master of Science in Education Degree (MSEd) and Education Specialist Degree (EdS) in Reading and Literacy Instruction Program. In 2024, she received the University’s Distinguished Teacher Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to teaching, learning, and student mentorship.
Her professional journey spans roles in higher education, public school systems, and clinical settings. She has held appointments at institutions such as Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, The Reading Institute, and American International College. A retired Reading Specialist and Instructional Literacy Coach from the Pittsfield Public Schools, Professor Hakeem has also served as a district data specialist, practicum supervisor, and course facilitator for reading licensure and endorsement programs across Massachusetts.
Professor Hakeem holds a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Reading Specialist and Administration from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, a Master of Arts in Theology from St. Joseph’s Seminary and College Institute for Religious Studies, and a Bachelor of Science in Research and Clinical Psychology from Chestnut Hill College. She holds multiple Massachusetts educator licenses, including Reading Specialist (all levels), Elementary License (Grades 1-6), Principal/Assistant Principal (PreK–6), and Moderate Disabilities (PreK–8).
A nationally recognized voice in literacy education, Professor Hakeem has co-authored journal articles, served as a reviewer for the International Dyslexia Association, and contributed to the Massachusetts Early Literacy Guidelines, Massachusetts Subject Matter Guidelines for Reading Specialists, and the State Dyslexia Guidelines. She is a frequent presenter on evidence-based literacy practices and has led professional development initiatives for school districts and educator preparation programs across the Northeast.
As Academic Program Director, Professor Hakeem will lead the Reading and Literacy programs’ curriculum development, faculty support, student success strategies, and accreditation initiatives, including those aligned with the International Dyslexia Association and the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI).
Please visit the Master of Science in Education Degree (MSEd) and Education Specialist Degree (EdS) in Reading and Literacy Instruction Program page to learn about curriculum, faculty, program options and more!
