Farewell to Professor Belinda Lazarus

On June 20, 2013 a celebration was held to honor the career of Professor Belinda Lazarus on the occasion of her retirement from the University of Michigan-Dearborn after 22 years of service. Numerous friends and family members, professional colleagues from inside and outside the university, and former students joined in recounting Belinda’s many contributions and accomplishments.

Belinda Davis Lazarus graduated from The Ohio State University in 1973 with a B.S. in Education. She later earned a Master’s degree in Special Education Administration from Bowling Green State University in 1981, and a doctorate in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from The Ohio State University in 1986.

Professor Lazarus taught special education at the University of Michigan-Dearborn for 22 years, serving as coordinator of the program for much of that time. During her time at UM-Dearborn she developed strong programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. As the students who spoke at the retirement event attested Professor Lazarus has a well-deserved reputation as an outstanding teacher and mentor.


Dr. Lazarus was also an accomplished researcher, with numerous refereed publications on many aspects of special education. Topics covered in her research included effective instructional practices, technology for persons with disabilities, virtual K-12 schools, and attitudes towards reading expressed by students with learning disabilities.

In addition to her teaching and research activities, Belinda played an important role on numerous campus committees and initiatives, generously sharing her time and expertise. She also contributed locally, regionally and nationally to professional organizations in the field of special education. With a sincere passion for special education, she  delivered numerous presentations at professional conferences at the international, national, regional and state levels. Dr. Lazarus was the recipient of the 2006 Foundation for Creative Dispute Resolutions Award.

The University of Michigan-Dearborn School of Education is pleased to recognize Professor Belinda Davis Lazarus for 22 years of outstanding service as a member of the faculty; for her innovative contributions to the preparation and continuing education of special education teachers; and for her leadership and colleagueship in the school and university. We wish her bon voyage!