Hello and welcome to my page!

My name is Miray Seward. I received my Ph.D. in Educational Psychology: Applied Developmental Science from the School of Education and Human Development at the University of Virginia. I received my B.A. in Psychology and a certificate in Human Development from Duke University.

Currently, I work as a Research Scientist at Search Institute. As an applied mixed methods researcher, I develop research-based tools and supports for youth-serving organizations, build new community partnerships, and secure grant funding for projects. I take a community-based approach to research that values and centers lived experience. Currently, I am working alongside multiple youth-serving organizations to help them become relationship-rich organizations, and incorporate research-based practices and tools into their daily practice.

My board research interests center on the identity development, racial socialization, and schooling experiences of Black youth. My work has focused centered on young people’s experiences in out-of-school time organizations such as sports, school, and home. As a former NCAA Division I athlete, I am also deeply committed to supporting the positive development of athletes through holistic identity development.