Dr. Maryanne Cullinan PhD

Dr. Maryanne Cullinan is an educator and researcher exploring the transformative power of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) in learning environments. She holds a Ph.D. in Education from Lesley University, where her research focused on using RPGs as pedagogy in inclusive middle school classrooms, fostering engagement, creativity, and social-emotional learning.

A veteran teacher with over a decade of experience, Maryanne designs innovative curricula that integrate gaming into education. At Great Brook School, she teaches enrichment courses, advises a thriving student Dungeons & Dragons club, and directs student-led performances. She also co-created Geeking for Good, a multidisciplinary course at Lesley University exploring gaming, therapy, and learning.

A published researcher and frequent conference speaker, Dr. Cullinan presents internationally on the intersection of games and education. Her work has been featured at PAX East, SXSWedu, and Origins Game Fair, where she advocates for the integration of play-based learning in classrooms. Through writing, speaking, and hands-on workshops, she equips educators with the tools to harness TTRPGs for deeper learning and student empowerment.