In this first of the four 2025 Spotlight on Structured Literacy webinars hosted by IDA-GA and TRL-GA, Dr. Tim Odegard will discuss Dyslexia’s impact on literacy and well-being. 

In our evolving understanding of dyslexia, recent insights reveal a complex risk-resiliency model that underscores the interplay between individual factors and environmental influences on dyslexia and its severity. Beyond its impact on reading and writing, dyslexia’s primary characteristics significantly affect mental health and overall well-being. These modern realities challenge us to consider how we define, approach, and address dyslexia. This webinar explores the implications of word-level difficulties characteristic of dyslexia on mental health. It also examines research that has aimed to address the mental health challenges prevalent among individuals with dyslexia.

Dr. Odegard brings both personal experience and professional expertise to his talks. His presentations are known for their depth, clarity, and practical insights, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience.

Registration: https://forms.gle/MtYtvD4dNyjTXQVw7
All registrants will have an opportunity to earn a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of a knowledge check/request for COA form after viewing the webinar. Register by January 21 at 11:59 pm to receive the link to attend the live webinar. 

Tim Odegard is a Professor of Psychology holding the Katherine DavisMurfree Chair of Excellence in Dyslexic Studies, and he leads the Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia at Middle Tennessee State University. He contributes significantly to advancing the Science of Reading in key leadership roles. He currently serves As Editor-in-Chief of Annals of Dyslexia and consulting editor for the Journal of Learning Disabilities. He is a past editor of Perspective on Language and Literacy. He was a contributing author on the IDA’s Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading. He is a past Vice President of the Texas Dyslexia Licensure Advisory Committee and has served as a member of the International Dyslexia Association’s (IDA) Educational Training Initiative.

His commitment to enhancing educational opportunities extends beyond students with dyslexia, and Tim works on broader literacy initiatives throughout the United States. His service has included serving as a technical consultant for several state initiatives around foundational literacy skills and reading disabilities. He contributed to online training for several state departments of education and has provided technical support to some of the largest school districts in the U.S. He currently serves as a member of the California Reading Difficulties Risk Selection panel and several advisory boards for nonprofit groups making meaningful impacts in communities across the nation.

Tim’s accolades include the Founders Award from the AIM Institute, the Innovator Award as an Outstanding MSLE Professional from the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council, the Luke Waits Service Award from the Academic Language Therapy Association, the Massey-Sexton Dyslexia Advocacy Award from the Tennessee Branch IDA, the Roland H. Waters Teaching Award from the University of Arkansas, and the Research Excellence Award from the University of Texas, Arlington.

Expert Minutes: Dr. Odegard provides an overview of dyslexia in this short Expert Minutes video provided by the Center for Dyslexia MTSU.

About Dr. Odegard’s Dyslexia Uncovered Podcast: Embark on a journey through the layers of dyslexia with “Dyslexia Uncovered,” a podcast that delves into the historical roots, scientific insights, and personal realities surrounding dyslexia. Join Tim Odegard, your guide through this exploration, as we unravel the complexities of dyslexia, challenge preconceptions, and dispel common misconceptions.

Article: Dr. Odegard has authored many articles, including the 2024 Annal of Dyslexia article, “The Gift of Dyslexia: What’s the Harm in It?”

Information about the Spotlight on Structured Literacy Series: https://ga.dyslexiaida.org/2025-spotlight-on-structured-literacy-webinar-series/