Susan Magsamen is an award-winning writer and advisor specializing in family and children’s issues, with a focus on creativity, learning, and brain science. She is the author of seven books, including "The Classic Treasury of Childhood Wonders," published with National Geographic. Her works have earned widespread acclaim, receiving hundreds of national awards from organizations such as Parents’ Choice, Oppenheim Awards, and the Canadian Toy Council Award. Magsamen’s publications and programs are celebrated for empowering families to connect with each other and the world around them, blending research-backed insights with practical applications.
As the Director of Interdisciplinary Partnerships at Johns Hopkins University’s Brain Science Institute, Magsamen bridges the gap between scientific research and everyday practice. Her interdisciplinary approach brings together educators, psychologists, policymakers, and families to explore topics like education, child development, and creative learning. She has founded several initiatives, including Curiosityville and FamilyStories, and co-founded the Neuro-Education Initiative at Johns Hopkins School of Education. Magsamen’s work extends beyond writing—she leverages multiple platforms, from books to speaker series, to disseminate knowledge and inspire communities.
Magsamen holds leadership roles in organizations such as Play for Tomorrow and the Center for Re-Imagining Children’s Learning and Education (CiRCLE) at Temple University. Her contributions to arts and education are further reflected in her service on boards for Arts Education in Maryland Schools and her guest editorship for the International Mind, Brain, and Education Society. With master’s degrees in Communications and Business from Johns Hopkins University, she combines academic rigor with a passion for fostering meaningful family experiences.