Dr. Shawna K. Gugino, EdD, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, educator, mediator, and educational leader with more than 25 years of experience serving children, families, and interdisciplinary teams. She currently serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Speech-Language Pathology and has held leadership positions including Director of Special Education, Dean of Students, Assistant Superintendent, and Supervisor of MTSS. She is a trained special education mediator with the New York State Department of Education, and a certified Custody/Parenting Plan mediator for the New York State Unified Court System where she leverages her communication and behavioral training to support individuals, families and caregivers in resolving interpersonal conflict. Additionally, Dr. Gugino is a panel judge for the University at Buffalo School of Law mediation competition where she shares her expertise with future attorneys. Dr. Gugino holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University at Buffalo, where her research focused on the impact of ethics and education law in parental participation in special education decision-making. She also completed a post-doctoral Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis and is currently preparing for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination. Her training includes behavior analysis, Motivational Interviewing, conflict coaching, mediation, restorative practices, and educational leadership. Drawing from her unique background in speech-language pathology, special education law/ethics, behavioral science, conflict engagement, and systems leadership, Dr. Gugino helps professionals navigate complex educational conversations, strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, and improve outcomes for children and families.
Shawna K. Gugino, EdD, CCC-SLP
