Sharing the Legacy and Narrative Leadership Experiences of Black Women in Education

The intersection of black feminist principles and gendered racism has formed a complex narrative, unveiling the need for black women's leadership in predominantly white workspaces. In a world wrestling with persistent gender and racial disparities, the stories of black women stand out as both bold and brilliant but remain stifled, too often relegated to the shadows of academia and education. Despite standing as the most educated demographic nationally and displaying unmatched levels of labor market participation, black women are alarmingly scarce in leadership roles. Their ascent to higher positions is hindered by formidable barriers and damaging stereotypes such as the "angry black woman" or the dangerous transition from being labeled a "work pet" to a perceived "work threat." It is against this backdrop that Sharing the Legacy and Narrative Leadership Experiences of Black Women in Education emerges as an exploration into the challenges faced by black women, unraveling the narratives that need attention, understanding, and urgent action. Sharing the Legacy and Narrative Leadership Experiences of Black Women in Education invites readers to step into the shoes of black women in academia, providing an authentic and unfiltered glimpse into their experiences. The book challenges societal expectations and attempts to reshape conversations around diversity and inclusion. By intertwining powerful storytelling with compelling research, it seeks to dismantle the barriers that have hindered the progress of black women for far too long. With a focus on offering relevant theoretical frameworks and the latest academic research, the book empowers leaders, educators, and organizations to become allies in the fight for a more equitable workplace. It envisions a future where black women can thrive and lead with unwavering determination. This book is designed for professionals and researchers in leadership positions across various disciplines, including education, psychology, sociology, business and management, gender studies, African American studies, leadership development, law and criminal justice, and healthcare. The book equips its readers with insights and knowledge to foster equitable workplaces, develop culturally competent leaders, and address critical topics such as tokenism, representation, mid-level management, affinity circles, diversity, equity, inclusion, retention, psychologically safe spaces, and more. Embrace the narrative of Sharing the Legacy and Narrative Leadership Experiences of Black Women in Education and join the movement to unlock the potential of black women, honor their brilliance, and forge a future where they can lead in all professional spaces, breaking barriers with a resilience that is both inspirational and transformative.

Ashley N. Storman (she/her) is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Scholar, Practitioner, Author, and Educator that identifies as a Christian, Wife, and Mother. Dr. Storman has over 15 years of higher education experience in the following: diversity, equity, & inclusion, recruitment, retention, coaching, leadership development, mentor programs, affinity groups, departmental and organization-wide program development, social justice curriculum development, consulting, teaching, and strategic collaboration to implement programs and strategies to assist marginalized communities, educate allies, and build inclusive environments. Dr. Storman was born and raised in Davenport, Iowa, and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology and her Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Post-Secondary Education: Student Affairs, both from the University of Northern Iowa. In 2019, Dr. Storman obtained her Doctor of Education (Ed.D) in Higher Education Leadership with a Teaching emphasis from Maryville University. In April of 2022, Dr. Storman decided to put her passion to work and launched The Storman Group LLC. to impact culture by cultivating inclusive work environments. Dr. Storman is also a published author with research that focuses on the leadership development of African American women who aspire to be leaders in the academy. Dr. Storman is a fellow of the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative Leadership Program, a past Board Member of the NASPA Center for Women, Rides N’ School Supply, and American Association of Advertising STL. Currently she serves as Board Member for Habitat for Humanity St. Louis, committee member for Girls Inc. of St. Louis, and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Dr. Storman resides in St. Louis, MO with her husband, two sons, and dog. Dr. Storman is very passionate about DEI, women's empowerment, and addressing issues of equity that hinder those from marginalized backgrounds from having an equitable and fair opportunity.

Destiny Reddick is an educator, equity champion, and social justice influencer with 17+ years of experience in K-12 and higher education. Her track record of effectively leading and inspiring diverse students, teachers, and schools and advocating tirelessly to promote educational equity intentionally focuses on supporting traditionally underserved, under-resourced schools and communities. Reddick has served as a public school teacher, instructional specialist, district-level curriculum and instruction leader where she authored an instructional framework for teachers that incorporated social-emotional learning and anti-racism, Assistant Professor of education, and Assistant Dean of undergraduate and graduate education programs. She currently serves in a few roles, including the CEO/Founder of Redefine the Pipeline, LLC, which provides I.D.E.A. (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Anti-Racism) consulting and coaching services for organizations, school systems, and universities, an associate and professional speaker for Solution Tree professional learning and educational publishing company, and an evaluator for Western Governors University's teacher education program. Reddick is a national presenter in education, assessment, and diversity and inclusion. She has participated in years of formal, site-based training in cultural and linguistic responsiveness and assessment literacy and has also achieved various state-endorsed educational certifications. Some of her most experienced areas include: sound assessment and grading practices, evaluation, culturally and linguistically responsive pedagogy, social-emotional learning, restorative practices, adult learning principles, professional development, instructional, course, and curriculum design, facilitating adult learning and strategic organizational support in diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism in PK-12 and higher education settings. Reddick recently joined ForbesBLK, a platform, and community that amplifies the voices of Black entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders, and creators, and was inducted into the National Honor Society of Leadership & Success. Additional accolades include the President's Award for Strategic Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion (2019); Power 100 Honoree (2019), Who's Who Diversity in Color Honoree (2019); Teacher of the Year (2012); Outstanding Missouri Beginning Teacher (2007); Leona Korol Award for Professional Promise (2006). Reddick holds her doctorate in teacher leadership and a master's degree in early childhood education. She soon completes another master's, this time in educational leadership. Her bachelor's degree is in elementary education. In her spare time, Dr. Reddick serves on the Board of a nonprofit called A Red Circle that promotes community betterment in North St. Louis County through a racial equity lens and leads a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion parent volunteer committee at her children's school (ages 10 and 6).