GSEHD alumna Susan Amerikaner (master’s in Elementary Education) was recently profiled in GW Magazine in the article, “Making Disney Come Alive on the Page.”
Over a remarkable four-decade career with Disney Publishing Worldwide, Amerikaner helped bring beloved Disney characters and stories to life for generations of young readers. Through her work, she expanded the adventures of iconic characters beyond the screen, creating new stories that engaged and inspired children around the world.
Amerikaner has authored more than 200 books and scripts during her career, establishing herself as a prolific voice in children’s literature and entertainment. Her accomplishments also extend to television writing. She received an Emmy Award nomination and earned a Writers Guild of America Award for Outstanding Children’s Script for her work on the Disney Channel series Adventures in Wonderland.
In the GW Magazine profile, Amerikaner reflects on her creative journey and the unique challenge of writing stories that remain true to cherished Disney characters while introducing fresh adventures for young audiences.
Her distinguished career demonstrates the many ways educators and storytellers can shape learning and imagination. As an author, scriptwriter, and creative professional, Amerikaner has used the power of storytelling to spark curiosity, foster literacy, and create memorable experiences for children across generations.
Amerikaner’s success highlights the diverse paths pursued by GSEHD alumni and the impact they make in education, publishing, and the creative industries.