Durant, Okla. – Dr. Mila Zhu, Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Instruction and Leadership at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, has been named to the 2025 edition of Oklahoma Magazine’s “40 Under 40” list, featured in the publication’s April 2025 issue.
Dr. Zhu has taught at Southeastern for five years. In addition to her faculty role, she serves as the EDUC Program Coordinator and is the Founding Director of the Center for Asian Resources and Intercultural Studies (CARIS). Her research spans curriculum theorizing, philosophical foundations of education, and teacher education, with a recent focus on integrating Esports and Ludology into educational contexts.
“My work revolves around preparing future educators for the evolving demands of teaching and learning,” Dr. Zhu said. “My role blends instruction, curriculum development, mentorship, and research, with a strong focus on innovative pedagogy, digital learning, and interdisciplinary approaches.”
Dr. Zhu emphasizes that teaching and learning are inseparable. “Every interaction in the classroom is a dialogue—a space where knowledge is not transferred, but co-constructed,” she said. “Every time I guide students toward new insights, I am learning just as much from their perspectives, experiences, and questions.”
She considers her proudest achievement to be the creation of learning spaces “where students feel empowered to challenge norms and explore new pedagogical possibilities.” Outside the classroom, Dr. Zhu continues her advocacy for educational equity, interdisciplinary research, and mentorship—“whether it’s guiding emerging educators, advocating for more inclusive pedagogy, or contributing to community-driven learning projects.”
Before joining Southeastern, Dr. Zhu lived, studied, and taught in diverse international settings, including Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Shanghai. These experiences have enriched her understanding of global education systems and curricula, deeply informing her research and teaching—particularly in the areas of global and comparative education.
A grand winner of the First Asian Youth Piano Competition and a freelance musician, Dr. Zhu integrates her musical background into her pedagogical practice, bringing a multidisciplinary approach to teacher preparation and curriculum design. Her work promotes the role of the arts and multicultural education in cultivating diverse and equitable learning environments.
Dr. Zhu is the recipient of the 2024 Southeastern Faculty Senate Recognition Award for Outstanding Research and Scholarly Activity and the 2023 Faculty Senate Recognition Award for Excellence in Teaching. These honors underscore her commitment to extending her impact within and beyond the campus community, particularly in collaboration with pre-service teachers and underserved populations to advance inclusive education across various contexts.
About Southeastern
Founded in 1909, Southeastern Oklahoma State University provides an environment of academic excellence that enables students to reach their highest potential. By having personal access to excellent teaching, challenging academic programs, and extracurricular experiences, students will develop skills and habits that promote values for career preparation, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. Our over 6,000 students include 50% first-generation students and 28% students of Native American descent, with 82% receiving financial aid. Southeastern ranks amongst the most affordable schools in the region thanks to out-of-state tuition waivers and is proud of its exceptional affordable accredited MBA program, stellar aerospace and teacher education programs, and outstanding national ranking in graduating Native American students.
