Ryan Thornton 

IDEAL Program

Asst. Dir. for Academics

Biography

Ryan Thornton is the Assistant Director of Academics for IDEAL. Her role includes planning and teaching specialized IDEAL courses that focus on independent living skills. She also works closely with Lipscomb faculty to facilitate students' involvement in university courses. Ryan received her Bachelor's degree in Special Education from the University of Georgia and her Master's degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Vanderbilt University. Before coming to IDEAL, Ryan taught in Williamson County, Metro Nashville Public Schools and Solly school at Lipscomb Academy as a special education teacher at the elementary level. Watching students realize their potential and grow in their faith is Ryan’s favorite part of her job.