Featured Falcons: Dr. William Harper-Hooper IV

June 10, 2025

What is your name and current title with the University of Montevallo?
My name is Dr. William Harper-Hooper IV. I currently serve as an assistant professor of early childhood education and as the program coordinator for the Early Childhood Education undergraduate program and the Applied Instruction STEAM for Early Learners master’s program.

Where are you from and what city do you currently reside in? 
I am originally from Evansville, Indiana, and currently live in Birmingham.

If you hold any degrees, what are they in and from what schools? 
I hold a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Southern Indiana, a master’s degree in early childhood education and administration from Ball State University and a doctoral degree in early childhood education with a concentration in early intervention from The University of Alabama at Birmingham.

How long have you worked here?
I have been with the University since fall 2019.

Did you hold any previous positions here? If so, what are they?
During my first year, I served as a visiting professor.

What brought you to Montevallo?
My introduction to the University of Montevallo came through Dr. Laura Bloom, who I had the privilege of meeting thanks to a shared mentor who connected us at a conference. I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to contribute to the development of the Early Childhood Education Program, which aligned closely with my passion for the field of early childhood education and supporting future educators.

What’s the best thing about working for Montevallo?
For me, the best part of working at the University of Montevallo is the relationships I’ve been able to build with my students. That connection is at the heart of what I believe makes someone a great educator. I also really appreciate the autonomy we have as faculty to focus our teaching, research and service on what we’re most passionate about. For me, that passion is early childhood education. It’s been so rewarding to contribute to the growth of the Early Childhood Education Program, pursue research that excites me and share my love for the field with students while serving both the University and the broader community.

Do you have any interesting stories about one of your favorite experiences here?
One of my most memorable experiences at the University of Montevallo happened during a key time in my life. The day before the spring 2023 semester started, my twins were born unexpectedly early out of state as we were in the middle of an adoption. It was such an incredible moment, but also overwhelming as I tried to figure out how to be a new dad while commuting between two states and keeping up with my work responsibilities. Their understanding and encouragement made all the difference, and it’s something I’ll never forget. That experience really showed me that Montevallo is more than just where I work — it’s a place where I belong.

What’s your proudest accomplishment since being at UM?
My proudest moments at UM are always tied to the relationships I’ve built with my students. Nothing makes me feel more successful than when a former student stops by my office to share an update. It might be something professional, like nailing a lesson, passing their teaching exams, getting their first teaching job or even a personal milestone like an engagement, an award they’ve earned or a project they’re excited about with their students. These moments mean everything to me because they show that my teaching has gone beyond the classroom. More importantly, they remind me that my students feel valued, respected and know they’ll always have my support.

Are you currently working on or have you recently completed any interesting projects?
I’m currently working with a colleague on a peer-reviewed book chapter that focuses on the experiences of Black male educators in early childhood education (preschool through third grade). We’re exploring the challenges they face and offering strategies to help navigate their professional landscapes. Some of these strategies include building strong relationships with students, engaging with the community and advocating for systemic change within their schools.

Why do you belong at Montevallo? 
I belong at Montevallo because of the genuine sense of community and connection that makes this place so special. For me, building meaningful relationships with students is the most important part of being an educator, and Montevallo creates the perfect environment to make those connections in a way that truly matters.