Mary Ruth Coleman was brought on to this project in the last edition, with a small role. In this new edition, she has taken on a central role, as co-author with Dr. Gallagher. Well known in the field, Dr. Coleman served as President of the Council for Exceptional Children. She earned her Ph.D. in 1990 at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Special Education and Literacy Studies.
Nicholas J. Anastasiow was, until his retirement, Professor of Special Education at Hunter College. He received his Ph. D. from Stanford University, and his diverse background includes degrees in child development, counseling psychology and administration, and supervision in the schools. Former Director of the Institute for Child Study at Indiana University, he is a widely respected researcher and has served as teacher and administrator in a variety of settings. A dedicated and prolific researcher and writer, Dr. Anastasiow has published both theoretical works and practical curriculum designs.