Elizabeth Ritz, visiting assistant professor in the music department, is the director of the Teacher Education and Adolescent to Young Adult programs. Prior to her time at Case Western Reserve University, Ritz received her PhD in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in literacy from Kent State University before teaching at Notre Dame College (NDC) in Cleveland.

At NDC, Ritz was an associate professor of Early Childhood Education, serving as the instructional leader for undergraduate students in early education and graduate students of literacy. She held positions as coordinator of clinical practice, director of graduate programs and ultimately became the chair of the Division of Professional Education. Additionally, Ritz led the development of a proposal for a Doctorate in Inclusive Educational Leadership that earned conditional approval at NDC. 

Ritz works with preservice and classroom teachers to better understand social emotional skills and develop resilience as they navigate the post-pandemic classroom. Her practice is informed by her early career in PK-12 education, where she was an early childhood educator. 

Now at CWRU, Ritz is happy to be working with faculty and students. She believes getting to know her students and colleagues as unique individuals is what makes her job more interesting and enjoyable. 

Ritz advises students to immerse themselves into the CWRU experience.

“Take advantage of every opportunity to experience university life and what it offers,” she said. “Get involved and participate in every possible opportunity!”  

Ritz enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and gardening.