The first innovation hub built for the future of HBCUs
The PROPEL Center prepares HBCU talent for the future of work, unlocking opportunities and serving as the premier platform to connect with world-class talent across the HBCU ecosystem.
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Our Story
The concept of PROPEL was born in 2019 as a proactive solution for systemic barriers impacting HBCUs. As the United States wrestled yet again with the turmoil of social injustice and historical inequalities, companies reacted by investing in equity approaches. Yet, there was still no comprehensive solution for workforce disparities.
Our journey began with a simple yet profound vision: To create enduring prosperity and improve lives through transformative educational approaches.
Envisioned as an innovation hub that upskills and catapults Black talent from the HBCU ecosystem, PROPEL and founding partners Apple and Southern Company are committed to fostering a new generation of Black leaders via programming and workforce development.
To date, we've provided over 1 million dollars in scholarships and 4 million dollars in institutional grants. In an ever-changing world, PROPEL prepares HBCU talent for the future of work, today.
How We PROPEL
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Accelerating innovation for all HBCUs.
With a cutting-edge virtual and physical learning center, PROPEL moves at the speed of technology to offer HBCU students the training they need to be leaders in the future workforce.
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Cultivating tomorrow’s change-makers today.
PROPEL offers HBCU students comprehensive training and tools to catalyze their growth as creative, justice-minded leaders – who are fully equipped to change the world.
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Connecting HBCUs with new opportunities.
PROPEL is the central hub to connect industry with the nation’s HBCU students. We partner with companies to offer programming and work-based learning experiences that prepare students for lasting success.
Our Mission and Vision
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The premier learning hub that bridges talent and industry for boundless economic opportunity.
Meet the Team
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Dr. Lisa N. Herring is a visionary education leader dedicated to transforming the learning experience and workforce access for students nationwide. As the President of The PROPEL Center, the country’s first innovation technology hub designed to upskill students and faculty, she spearheads groundbreaking initiatives that bridge education, innovation, technology and industry.
A former K-12 urban superintendent and strategic advisor to U.S. Secretary Cardona, Dr. Herring brings a wealth of expertise in education strategy and equity-driven innovation. Under her leadership, The PROPEL Learn app is revolutionizing access to microcredentials, Student Accelerators are equipping learners with real-world industry experience, and the Faculty Fellows Academy is fostering cutting-edge instruction—each initiative crafted in partnership with institutions and industry leaders. Through these dynamic programs, The PROPEL CENTER team of ROCKSTARS are redefining the student journey and unlocking new pathways to career success.
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As the Chief of Staff for Propel, Michael Johnson brings a wealth of experience and expertise as an accomplished higher education leader. With a track record of driving innovation and positive change at colleges, universities, and higher education-focused organizations, Michael is renowned for his strategic acumen in collaborating with senior executives to develop data-driven strategies that advance student success, enrollment growth, financial sustainability, and other top institutional priorities.Previously, Michael held various senior-level positions focused on strategic enrollment management, technology integration, and student success. Notably, as Vice President of Enrollment Management and Technology at Miles College, he spearheaded initiatives thatled to an 18% increase in overall enrollment and improved student access to technology. At Indiana University Bloomington, Michael played a pivotal role in advancing diversity and inclusion efforts for the Provost's office during a crucial period of racial justice awareness.
Michael's commitment to higher education administration stems from his background as a first- generation college graduate. Armed with a Master's in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University and a BA in Communications from North Carolina Central University, he is deeply dedicated to expanding access, affordability, and student achievement. Currently pursuing his Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership at the University of Southern California, Michael is continuously honing his skills to lead institutional transformation.
In recognition of his leadership potential, Michael was selected as a Fellow for the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute for Aspiring HBCU Presidents hosted by Clark Atlanta Universityin 2022. This prestigious program equips emerging leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in executive roles within the HBCU community. Now, as the Chief of Staff for Propel, Michael's visionary leadership and strategic prowess drive the organization forward towards its mission and goals.
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Dr. Camesha Whittaker, Ph.D., is the Chief Learning & Innovation Officer at the Propel Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Under her leadership, the Propel Center launched its inaugural tech product, Propel Learn, with over 1,000 users in 2023. This mobile-first virtual learning platform is now accessible to over 300,000 students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In addition, Dr. Whittaker leads Propel’s virtual campus, overseeing product development, instructional design, curriculum development, research and development, faculty and consortia development. With the support of founding partners Apple and Southern Company, the Propel Center serves as a dynamic epicenter of learning, equipping students with the requisite knowledge, skills, tools, and resources to revolutionize the global talent pipeline and workforce. Dr. Whittaker’s passion for this work stems from extensive, broad-based collaborations in the marketplace, in public higher education institutions, as well as in HBCUs. Nationally, her work has been featured on several media platforms. Worthy of note is her C-SPAN presentation on civility with Representatives James Clyburn, Cathy Castor, Dr. Thelma Daley, and Dr. Allida Black; her PBS leadership discussion, Side by Side with Dr. Nido Qubein; and her contribution to The National Urban League's Interrupt Racism Summit. Before joining the executive leadership team at the Propel Center, Dr. Whittaker was the inaugural Director of the BJ Moore Center for Faculty Innovation and Associate Professor of Communication at Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she
managed the e-learning and faculty development division. As a sought-after educator and education consultant with over two decades of experience, Dr. Whittaker’s record of unwavering commitment to nurturing academic excellence and facilitating individuals toward actualizing their full potential is without question. As an award-winning academic, certified faculty developer, author, and influential business communication expert, Dr. Whittaker is an audacious innovator whose wide-ranging background, spanning areas within technology, media, and education, along with her expertise in leadership and civility, marks her as a respected figure in the business, academic, and education technology sectors. The legacies of American civil rights leader and educator Mary McLeod Bethune and former United States First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt inspire Dr. Whittaker’s passion for advancing principles of civility and global citizenship. Her first book – Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune: An Unusual Friendship – proposes civility as a fundamental core value necessary for fostering stronger socio-cultural relationships and advocating for a more cohesive society. Dr. Whittaker earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication from Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, FL, a Master of Arts degree in Public Communication from American University in Washington, DC, and a Ph.D. in Communication Studies, specializing in Organizational Communication from Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA.
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Dr. Dione Simon is a passionate educator and visionary leader dedicated to transforming the landscape of education. Born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, Dr. Simon developed a strong belief in the impactful power of education from an early age. With over two decades of experience, she remains dedicated to fostering environmentswhere others can learn and thrive.
Dr. Simon’s career has positioned her as a dynamic force in the field of education and is marked by a series of achievements and accolades that reflect her commitment to driving positive change and extends far beyond the classroom. As a successful school leader and most recently Director of Innovation and Redesign, she has learned to navigate challenges, seize opportunities with precision and foresight, and champion design thinking to advance equity. She has been featured in local and national publications, recognized for her innovative initiatives, and celebrated for her dedication to student success. With her unwavering commitment to excellence and passion for serving others, Dr. Simon continues to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders in education andpersistently pushes the boundaries of education.
Driven by her passion for empowering students and educators alike, Dr. Simon continues to serve as an adjunct professor and leadership coach.In addition to her professional pursuits, she maintains a profound dedication to her community, holding the position of Board Chairwoman for the Afterschool All-stars Atlanta Advisory Board andmember of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.
With a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education and a Master of Science in Mathematics from Southern University, Dr. Simon laid the foundation for her journey in education. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue further studies, earning her an Education Specialist Degree in Instructional Media and Technology, Doctorate of Education, with a concentration in School Improvement and certification in Educational Leadership, from the University of West Georgia. She has recently earned additional certifications in Design Thinking from the University of Texas at Austin and Design Thinking and Innovation from Harvard Business School Online.
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Ashley J. Sutton, a trailblazer and visionary leader, is the founder and CEO ofthe AJS Group, a renowned coaching, consulting, and leadership training firm specializing in communications skill training, brand development, and strategic partnerships. She also serves as the Director of Strategic Initiatives at Propel, where she is responsible for forging external partnerships with organizations and individuals.In 2017, Ebony Magazine recognized Ashley's exceptional work in crisis communications, public relations, and digital media, naming her among the "Black Women to Know in PR, Tech, and Digital Media." Her journey has taken her across Europe, where she lived and traveled extensively, working as a sales and communications manager and gaining invaluable international experience. Ashley earned her bachelor's degree in Business Management from Wilberforce University in Ohio and holds a master's degree in Media Communications with an emphasis in Journalism from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California. Ashley currently reside in Birmingham, Alabama with her family!
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Mark Anthony Wright, M.Ed., began his higher education academic pursuit at Johnson C. Smith University on a track and field scholarship, where he majored in Psychology. After two and a half years of college, he enlisted in the US Air Force, where he completed his Associate of Applied Science degree in Construction Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Mark then completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Management from the University of Phoenix and received his post-bachelor Graduate Certificate Degree in Cognitive Science from the University of North Carolina Charlotte (UNCC). Mark graduated Summa Cum Laude in the Educational Technology Master's Degree program at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) with a concentration in Online Instructional Design. As a former Curriculum and Training Manager for Linchpin Solutions, Inc., Mark led a team that included instructional designers, technical writers, and one virtual reality (VR) software programmer for the redesign of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Logistics Training curriculum. As part of the redesign, Mark and his team successfully designed, developed, and integrated a virtual reality (VR) training simulation for the FEMA Logistics Systems (LSCMS) Manager and Specialist training course that is required to be taken by all FEMA LSCMS employees. Mark also worked as a Curriculum Developer at the University of the District of Columbia Community College and was an Educational Technology Adjunct Professor for the University of the District of Columbia Van Ness main campus. Mark is currently the Director of Digital Learning and Instructional Design for Propel Education, LLC. Mark was instrumental in launching Propel Learn, the virtual learning platform designed to upskill all HBCU students and close the gap between the industry and the Black talent pipeline.
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Darryl Perkins’ work as the Director of Work -Based Learning will bridge the gap between students and the global workforce – bringing dynamic, hands-on training opportunities relevant to today's rapidly evolving job market. Perkins, a graduate of Howard University and founder of the Broccoli City Festival and Conference, aims to forge industry-aligned partnerships that offer students a cutting-edge advantage in pursuing current and future career opportunities. Perkins’ 15 years of experience is punctuated by curating award-winning campaigns and community-focused initiatives that advance racial wealth equity and promote healthy and sustainable communities.
Darryl Perkins is a community builder dedicated to catalyzing transformative change. He comes to Propel Center with over 15 years of experience advancing racial wealth equity, fostering healthy, sustainable communities, and leveraging technology for community organizing. Darryl has pioneered community-focused initiatives and multi-sector collaborations, leveraging vital partnerships with the private sector, public agencies, and government entities. His work with partners such as Broccoli City, AARP, Environmental Protection Agency, Techstars, Live Nation, UNCF, and Indeed has created pipelines to careers and brought resources to marginalized communities. As a founder of Broccoli City Festival and Conference, Darryl has helped shift culture and successfully galvanized over 400,000 attendees, predominantly from the millennial and Gen Z demographics, to celebrate health and environmental sustainability principles. Darryl is a proud Howard University alumnus. His creative strategies have led to the success of award-winning campaigns like Respect My Vote and Broc the Block, securing his recognition on the Essence Power 40 and Ebony Power 100 lists
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A creator, esteemed educator, visionary, and learning scientist, Dr. Carl S. Moore presently heads Youniversal Luv Unlimited as President, a company that champions the empowerment of individuals and groups. Alongside this, he currently lends his expertise as an Executive Fellow for Learning Innovation at PROPEL Education.
His impressive career trajectory involves crucial roles across multiple institutions. He has been an influential figure in Howard Community College as the Chief Academic Officer and served as the interim CAO and Associate Vice President for Learning and Engagement at the University of the District of Columbia. Additionally, he has helped develop and served as a Certificate faculty for Temple University’s Teaching Higher Education Certificate program.
Presently, Carl contributes his skills as a teaching faculty member at USC’s Equity Institute. He serves as a member of the Online Learning Consortium and is a trusted peer evaluator for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
In addition to his significant roles in academia, Carl, as a certified StrengthsFinder Coach and MBTI administrator, offers consultations on strategic planning, leadership, assessment, inclusive teaching, tech integration, and faculty development. His career is aptly defined by his multifaceted roles as a creator, strategist, facilitator, and coach.
Demonstrating his innovative approach, Carl has established faculty development units and departments at community colleges, research institutions, and an Ed Tech startup. His gift for leveraging technology to promote learning and instructional design capabilities have led to the creation of over 30 traditional and micro-credential courses and workshops across various formats, such as face-to-face, hybrid, and online.
Carl's strategic acumen shines through his focused strategies and strategic plans implemented in both higher education and corporate environments. As a skilled facilitator, he has led workshops on diverse themes, from microaggressions in the classroom to leveraging AI to promote learning.
Beyond these accomplishments, Carl distinguishes himself as an executive coach. He goes beyond conventional coaching methods to foster the growth and development of individuals, teams, and organizations, showcasing his commitment to the betterment of all facets of the educational landscape.
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Ashliegh Stubbs, a beacon of inspiration and mentorship for countless students, grew up on the beautiful island of Freeport, Grand Bahama, in the Bahamas. From an early age, Ashliegh exhibited a passion for understanding the complexities of the human
mind and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. Driven by her thirst for knowledge and a commitment to realizing her potential, Ashliegh set her sights on pursuing higher education in the United States. She made
the life-altering decision to relocate to Florida, seeking a diverse academic environment that would nurture her aspirations.
In 2021, Ashliegh achieved a significant milestone by earning her bachelor's degree in psychology from Bethune-Cookman University. Imbued with a deep understanding of the human psyche, she began to grasp the transformative power of education and its ability to unlock untapped potential within individuals.
Recognizing her innate ability to guide and support students on their educational journeys, Ashliegh embarked on a new chapter in her life. In 2023, she earned her master's degree in higher education administration from Florida International
University, solidifying her expertise in empowering young minds and helping them navigate the intricacies of academia.
Ashliegh's dedication to uplifting students, particularly those attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), is unwavering. Since 2018, she has been actively involved in mentoring and counseling HBCU students, honing her skills as an
advocate for their dreams and aspirations. Her invaluable experience at Bethune-Cookman University deepened her understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these students. In November of 2023, Ashliegh embarked on a remarkable journey by founding her own non-profit organization, EORO Inc. As the founder and President, she leads the
organization in its mission to serve as a catalyst for change, fostering community engagement, forging partnerships, and championing excellence. Through advocacy and education initiatives, EORO Inc. is dedicated to breaking cycles of poverty and
envisioning a future where every rural child is equipped with the tools for success. Ashliegh's leadership and dedication to this cause exemplify her commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Ashliegh's mission is to help students excel and achieve their dreams. Her unwavering commitment to this mission has led her to Propel, where she continues to utilize her
expertise and passion to inspire and uplift students. With Ashliegh's guidance, countless students have been able to overcome obstacles, discover their potential, and soar to new heights.
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O'Brian Spann is a seasoned educator with a rich background in counseling and educational leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Claflin University, a Master's in Education in School Counseling from South Carolina State University, and an Educational Specialist Degree from the University of West Alabama. Originally from South Carolina, O'Brian currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia.
With over 15 years of experience in the field of education, O'Brian has held various roles including Teacher, Counselor, Director of School Counseling, Coordinator of Special Projects for the Chief of Schools, and Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools. Throughout his career, he has worked in esteemed educational institutions such as Charleston School District, Birmingham City School District, and Atlanta Public Schools.
O'Brian's counseling philosophy centers around the belief that every student is capable of learning and achieving success. He emphasizes the importance of patience and guidance in helping students navigate their life journeys and discover their full potential. One of his guiding principles is encapsulated in the quote by Shannon L. Alder, "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life."
Through his dedication to education and counseling, O'Brian Spann strives to empower students to embrace challenges, develop resilience, and pursue their dreams with courage and determination.
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Dr. Lisa N. Herring is a visionary education leader dedicated to transforming the learning experience and workforce access for students nationwide. As the President of The PROPEL Center, the country’s first innovation technology hub designed to upskill students and faculty, she spearheads groundbreaking initiatives that bridge education, innovation, technology and industry.
A former K-12 urban superintendent and strategic advisor to U.S. Secretary Cardona, Dr. Herring brings a wealth of expertise in education strategy and equity-driven innovation. Under her leadership, The PROPEL Learn app is revolutionizing access to microcredentials, Student Accelerators are equipping learners with real-world industry experience, and the Faculty Fellows Academy is fostering cutting-edge instruction—each initiative crafted in partnership with institutions and industry leaders. Through these dynamic programs, The PROPEL CENTER team of ROCKSTARS are redefining the student journey and unlocking new pathways to career success.
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As the Chief of Staff for Propel, Michael Johnson brings a wealth of experience and expertise as an accomplished higher education leader. With a track record of driving innovation and positive change at colleges, universities, and higher education-focused organizations, Michael is renowned for his strategic acumen in collaborating with senior executives to develop data-driven strategies that advance student success, enrollment growth, financial sustainability, and other top institutional priorities.Previously, Michael held various senior-level positions focused on strategic enrollment management, technology integration, and student success. Notably, as Vice President of Enrollment Management and Technology at Miles College, he spearheaded initiatives thatled to an 18% increase in overall enrollment and improved student access to technology. At Indiana University Bloomington, Michael played a pivotal role in advancing diversity and inclusion efforts for the Provost's office during a crucial period of racial justice awareness.
Michael's commitment to higher education administration stems from his background as a first- generation college graduate. Armed with a Master's in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University and a BA in Communications from North Carolina Central University, he is deeply dedicated to expanding access, affordability, and student achievement. Currently pursuing his Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership at the University of Southern California, Michael is continuously honing his skills to lead institutional transformation.
In recognition of his leadership potential, Michael was selected as a Fellow for the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute for Aspiring HBCU Presidents hosted by Clark Atlanta Universityin 2022. This prestigious program equips emerging leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in executive roles within the HBCU community. Now, as the Chief of Staff for Propel, Michael's visionary leadership and strategic prowess drive the organization forward towards its mission and goals.
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Dr. Camesha Whittaker, Ph.D., is the Chief Learning & Innovation Officer at the Propel Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Under her leadership, the Propel Center launched its inaugural tech product, Propel Learn, with over 1,000 users in 2023. This mobile-first virtual learning platform is now accessible to over 300,000 students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In addition, Dr. Whittaker leads Propel’s virtual campus, overseeing product development, instructional design, curriculum development, research and development, faculty and consortia development. With the support of founding partners Apple and Southern Company, the Propel Center serves as a dynamic epicenter of learning, equipping students with the requisite knowledge, skills, tools, and resources to revolutionize the global talent pipeline and workforce. Dr. Whittaker’s passion for this work stems from extensive, broad-based collaborations in the marketplace, in public higher education institutions, as well as in HBCUs. Nationally, her work has been featured on several media platforms. Worthy of note is her C-SPAN presentation on civility with Representatives James Clyburn, Cathy Castor, Dr. Thelma Daley, and Dr. Allida Black; her PBS leadership discussion, Side by Side with Dr. Nido Qubein; and her contribution to The National Urban League's Interrupt Racism Summit. Before joining the executive leadership team at the Propel Center, Dr. Whittaker was the inaugural Director of the BJ Moore Center for Faculty Innovation and Associate Professor of Communication at Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she
managed the e-learning and faculty development division. As a sought-after educator and education consultant with over two decades of experience, Dr. Whittaker’s record of unwavering commitment to nurturing academic excellence and facilitating individuals toward actualizing their full potential is without question. As an award-winning academic, certified faculty developer, author, and influential business communication expert, Dr. Whittaker is an audacious innovator whose wide-ranging background, spanning areas within technology, media, and education, along with her expertise in leadership and civility, marks her as a respected figure in the business, academic, and education technology sectors. The legacies of American civil rights leader and educator Mary McLeod Bethune and former United States First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt inspire Dr. Whittaker’s passion for advancing principles of civility and global citizenship. Her first book – Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune: An Unusual Friendship – proposes civility as a fundamental core value necessary for fostering stronger socio-cultural relationships and advocating for a more cohesive society. Dr. Whittaker earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication from Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, FL, a Master of Arts degree in Public Communication from American University in Washington, DC, and a Ph.D. in Communication Studies, specializing in Organizational Communication from Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA.
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Dr. Dione Simon is a passionate educator and visionary leader dedicated to transforming the landscape of education. Born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, Dr. Simon developed a strong belief in the impactful power of education from an early age. With over two decades of experience, she remains dedicated to fostering environmentswhere others can learn and thrive.
Dr. Simon’s career has positioned her as a dynamic force in the field of education and is marked by a series of achievements and accolades that reflect her commitment to driving positive change and extends far beyond the classroom. As a successful school leader and most recently Director of Innovation and Redesign, she has learned to navigate challenges, seize opportunities with precision and foresight, and champion design thinking to advance equity. She has been featured in local and national publications, recognized for her innovative initiatives, and celebrated for her dedication to student success. With her unwavering commitment to excellence and passion for serving others, Dr. Simon continues to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders in education andpersistently pushes the boundaries of education.
Driven by her passion for empowering students and educators alike, Dr. Simon continues to serve as an adjunct professor and leadership coach.In addition to her professional pursuits, she maintains a profound dedication to her community, holding the position of Board Chairwoman for the Afterschool All-stars Atlanta Advisory Board andmember of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.
With a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education and a Master of Science in Mathematics from Southern University, Dr. Simon laid the foundation for her journey in education. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue further studies, earning her an Education Specialist Degree in Instructional Media and Technology, Doctorate of Education, with a concentration in School Improvement and certification in Educational Leadership, from the University of West Georgia. She has recently earned additional certifications in Design Thinking from the University of Texas at Austin and Design Thinking and Innovation from Harvard Business School Online.