Professor Downey has been an active leader and researcher in the field of rural education for over 25 years. Her scholarship is focused on preparing teachers and counselors for rural schools and communities and improving outcomes rural students. Professor Downey is committed to engaging in research, scholarship and service which are intentionally attuned to the complex realities and relationships of rural schools and communities—past, present, and future. She is a co-editor of Rural Education Across the World and co-author of Teaching in Rural Places: Thriving in Classrooms, Schools, and Communities. Professor Downey has been awarded over $15 million in research funding, published over 50 articles, chapters, reports, and professional manuals, and given over 150 research presentations at regional, national, and international conferences. She received the 2022 Career Achievement Award from the American Educational Research Association’s Rural Education SIG. Over the years, Professor has held multiple academic leadership roles including Department Head (6 years), Assistant Dean (2 years), and Associate Dean (5 years). Professor Downey also serves on the Board of Directors for the Montana Small Schools Alliance working on behalf of 150 of Montana’s smallest rural and remote schools.