Dr. Perla Myers

Perla Lahana Myers, Ph.D., is the Executive Director of the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education at USD’s School of Leadership and Education Sciences and a Professor of Mathematics in the College of Arts and Sciences. She earned her B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Houston and her M.A. and Ph.D. in Mathematics from UC San Diego. Passionate about equity in education and diversifying STEM fields, Dr. Myers collaborates with colleagues, students, and community partners to foster culturally affirming STEAM experiences and broaden participation in innovation. She leads projects like NSF-funded eSPAC3, which develops immersive, culturally-relevant virtual learning experiences, and the STEAM Team Academy, cultivating students’ skills and resilience. Dr. Myers is dedicated to creating pathways that inspire and support students, teachers, and communities in advancing STEM literacy and inclusive innovation.