Susan Riley

Susan M. Riley is a nationally recognized leader in arts integration, creative learning, and educational innovation. As the Founder of The Institute for Arts Integration & STEAM, she has spent more than two decades helping schools rethink what teaching and learning can be, moving beyond rigid content silos toward richer, more human-centered classrooms. Her work has reached millions of educators globally through her articles, online courses, and the popular Art Works for Teachers podcast, where she interviews some of the most influential thinkers in creativity, education, and leadership.

A former music educator turned creative strategist, Riley combines research-based insights with practical application, making creativity accessible and achievable for teachers at every level. Her work has been featured by Edutopia, Education Week, ASCD, and numerous national conferences.

In Creativity’s Edge, Riley examines the urgent need for creativity in the age of AI, weaving together neuroscience, classroom practice, and real-world innovation. With clarity and optimism, she offers a compelling roadmap for educators, leaders, and lifelong learners who want to build creative capacity in their work and lives.

Riley holds advanced certifications in music education and educational leadership and has partnered with districts across the United States to strengthen creative teaching practices. She lives in the mid-Atlantic with her family, where she continues to explore how creativity - and curiosity - shape our future.