Programming and Advocacy 

Three-day recruitment program bringing up to 75 diverse, prospective PhD and MFA applicants to campus to meet faculty in their area of interest, network with current students, tour campus and research laboratories, and attend workshops on strategies for a competitive application. Awarded INSIGHT into Diversity’s 2020 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award. 

Role: Program Director

Years: 2015-2021

Funding: $375,000

For over three decades, the Summer Bridge Program has worked to demystify academic success at Auburn University. At the core of our work lies the conviction that with rigorous instruction and adequate support, anyone can thrive. We help students achieve by honoring their diverse starting points, taking seriously their academic aspirations, and working hard to ensure they possess the tools to navigate the formal curriculum and the hidden demands of the research university. The founder of Education is my Destiny, Inc. directed the four week Summer Bridge Program for 30 to 35 incoming freshmen per year to the College of Sciences and Mathematics at Auburn University. In collaboration with the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM) Departments, First Year Experience, Residence Life, Student Counseling Services, Student Support Services, and Student Affairs, this 2012 group had a 100% matriculation rate of students attending Auburn University after attending program. During the academic year, additional services included tutoring, counseling, and mentoring for these students. The result at the end of Fall 2012 was that all students had a GPA of 3.0 or above with twelve with a 3.5 or above. Students stated the importance of building community and a sense of belonging to influence academic GPA. Fast forward to 2019 and three of these students from Summer Bridge 2012 graduated with Doctor of Pharmacy degrees. In speaking with them recently, they attribute their success to the skills developed in the Summer Bridge Program. 

Role: Program Director

Years: 2010-2015

Funding: $125,000

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A  Real Conversation is an opportunity for underrepresented graduate students to share experiences at Indiana University centered around various topics. The goals of these forums are   (1) to appreciate differences;   (2) to utilize experiences as a social learning platform, and (3) to develop academic and social skills to successfully navigate the university. 

Location: Indiana University

Topics: Arrival and Transition, Surviving the Hustle, From Survival to Thrival, Time, Gender Roles, and Commitment,  and Balancing Self, School, and Society, Indiana University

Years: 2016-2019

Funding: $60, 000

Impact: 150+ graduate students attended

Role: PI

Years: 2017-2021

Funding: $ 300,000

Role: PI

Years: 2011-2015

Funding:  $125,000

Launched and directed the inaugural event for 100 students from 9 high schools, managing six sessions and an advocacy in action simulation that established the program as a key recruitment initiative at Cumberland School of Law.

Role: Director

Year: 2025