Dr. Ophélie Desmet, Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology at Ball State University, has dedicated her career to uncovering hidden potential in students who might otherwise go unnoticed. From her research to her inspiring mentorship, Desmet is on a mission to create more inclusive opportunities for underrepresented students in gifted education.

But what drives her passion for education? And why did she choose Ball State as her academic home? Here’s a closer look.

A Passion for Amplifying Voices

Dr. Desmet’s journey into the world of educational psychology and gifted education began with a simple but powerful observation: far too many talented students were being overlooked.

“My passion for understanding and promoting talent development, especially among historically excluded populations, drew me to this field,” she says.

Her focus is clear: to amplify the voices of children from culturally diverse backgrounds, students with disabilities, girls, and those who are underachieving. It’s a purpose that has fueled her every step, from her early days as a K–12 teacher to her current role as a researcher and mentor.

Why Ball State?

For Dr. Desmet, Ball State University felt like a great fit. “It’s the perfect blend of academic excellence and a supportive community,” she explains, citing several factors that drew her to the university:

• The collaborative spirit of the faculty, which complements her research on talent development and inclusive education.
• Motivated students who inspire her to innovate in teaching and mentoring.
• Ball State’s strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, a mission close to her heart.
• The opportunity to join a renowned Educational Psychology program and access resources to further her work on academic underachievement and social-emotional interventions.

With prior experience at Purdue University and Valdosta State University (in Valdosta, Georgia), Desmet is excited to bring her expertise to Ball State’s vibrant academic community.

Mentoring: The Heart of the Job

Ask Dr. Desmet about the most rewarding part of her work, and her answer is immediate: mentoring students.

“Nothing beats watching students grow into confident researchers and scholars,” she shares.

She takes pride in guiding undergraduate and graduate students through hands-on research projects, many of which culminate in conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications. These moments of growth, she says, are what make her work so meaningful.

Pioneering Research

Dr. Desmet’s research focuses on unlocking talent in students often overlooked by traditional gifted education models. Her work addresses critical issues, including:

• Social-emotional interventions to prevent academic underachievement.
• Gender-specific patterns in academic achievement among gifted students.
• More equitable methods for identifying gifted students.
• The unique needs of twice-exceptional students, particularly those with Developmental Coordination Disorder.

Currently, she’s leading a U.S. Department of Education project that aims to revolutionize how gifted students are identified, using principles of positive psychology. “Our goal is to uncover hidden talents in diverse, low-income, and disability-inclusive populations,” she explains.

Her work bridges research and practice, offering innovative solutions to create more inclusive educational systems.

A Message to Aspiring Educators

Dr. Desmet has sage advice for anyone considering a career in educational psychology or gifted education:

“Never lose sight of the individual student behind the data,” she emphasizes. “Your work can transform lives and unlock hidden potential.”

She also encourages aspiring professionals to stay curious, engage in lifelong learning, and remain open to new perspectives.

For students beginning their academic journeys, Dr. Desmet encourages embracing curiosity, challenging preconceptions, and broadening perspectives by engaging with diverse peers, seeking out undergraduate research opportunities, and building relationships with professors for mentorship.

She also advises balancing intellectual curiosity with self-care. “Prioritize your well-being—cognitive growth and emotional health go hand-in-hand,” she notes. “Remember: your journey is about personal growth, not just grades. Stay resilient, celebrate your successes, and never stop learning. You’ve got this!”

Beyond the Classroom

When she’s not conducting research or mentoring students, Dr. Desmet finds joy in hiking and music. These hobbies offer a perfect balance to her academic life, keeping her grounded and inspired.

“Hiking is my go-to for unwinding and connecting with nature. There’s nothing like the fresh air and scenic views to clear the mind and recharge the spirit.” she says. In addition to hitting the trails, she also hits the high notes, singing with Muncie’s Musical Chorale, and experience she calls pure joy.

Proud Moments

Dr. Desmet’s proudest achievements aren’t personal accolades—they’re the successes of her students.

“Nothing beats seeing a student overcome barriers, find their motivation, and gain the confidence to pursue their talents,” she says. “Every ‘aha’ moment reminds me why I do what I do.”

Dr. Ophélie Desmet’s work is a testament to the transformative power of education. Through her research, teaching, and mentorship, she’s not just shaping academic pathways—she’s changing lives.