By Tammy Reese
Celebrating Black Voices in Literature for Black History Month
As we honor Black History Month, it’s essential to highlight Black authors shaping the future through literature. Education is the foundation of progress, and the upcoming anthology Educators Rise: Voices of Change Anthology Volume 1 — curated by Dr. Heather A. Robinson — amplifies the voices of powerful Black educators who are transforming learning spaces and shaping young minds.
This groundbreaking book, set for release on April 25, 2025, is more than a collection of experiences; it’s an example of leadership in education. Featuring contributions from Y’Keitha Atkins, Dr. Alisha Broughton, Dr. Tiffany Jones-Fisher, Shannel Williams, Tammy Walsham, and more! Each chapter offers unique perspectives on the challenges and victories within the education system.
What makes Educators Rise even more exciting is that each author will have individual book covers and direct purchasing options, making it easier than ever to connect with them. Whether you’re an educator, parent, student, or advocate, this anthology is a must-read for anyone invested in the future of education.
Meet the Visionaries Behind ‘Educators Rise’
Dr. Heather Robinson BA, M.Ed — The Curator of Change
Heather A. Robinson, a two-time global award recipient and Presidential Lifetime Achievement honoree, is a leader in education advocacy and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEl) consulting. Based in Exton, PA, with roots in Philadelphia, she holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Educational Leadership. Overcoming personal loss as the youngest of nine siblings, Dr. Robinson has embodied perseverance and self-sufficiency. A six-time published author and dynamic speaker, she has successfully navigated the media landscape with eight speaking engagements, 20 magazine features, and 23 podcast appearances, solidifying her as a sought-after thought leader in education and DEl. She empowers individuals and organizations through her roles as an education advocate and DEl consultant, specializing in DEl strategy development, professional development workshops, equity audits, and creating inclusive cultures in schools, businesses, and non- profits. Dr. Robinson is the visionary of Educators Rise: Voices of Change Anthology Volume 1, set to release in Spring 2025.
“Visibility + Credibility = Equitability” — Dr. Heather A. Robinson
Contact Dr. Heather Robinson BA, M.Ed:
Website: www.anointed2write.com
Instagram: anointed_2_write
Facebook: Anointed2writeLLC
Y’Keitha Atkins — Transforming Lives Through Leadership
Y’Keitha Atkins, CEO & Founder of The N8 Experience, is a transformative leader dedicated to empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve growth, abundance, and gratitude in all areas of life. Through personalized business development mentorship, she offers expert guidance in strategy, leadership, mindset, and communication. Her turnkey business services provide seamless, ready-to-use solutions to streamline operations and accelerate success. Y’Keitha also leads The N8 Academy, an online platform offering courses, workshops, and coaching to support personal and professional growth. With a commitment to fostering resilience and innovation, Y’Keitha inspires others to thrive and succeed with purpose and clarity.
“Let us all be the leaders we wish we had.” — Y’Keitha Atkins
Contact Y’Keitha Atkins
Facebook: Key Atkins
Instagram: The N8 Visionary
LinkedIn: Y’Keitha Atkins
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TheN8Visionary
Dr. Alisha Broughton, Ed.D, PH.D. — A Survivor and Champion for Education
Dr. Alisha Broughton’s journey in education spans nearly three decades, touching countless lives through her roles as an elementary and high school English educator. Born and raised in Millsboro, Delaware, she currently serves as a full-time high school English educator and part-time professor, with dual certifications in Special Education. A survivor of two intrusive brain surgeries, she holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership. Her dedication has earned national recognition, including a National Jefferson Award, ranking among Delaware Today Magazine’s Top 10 Businesswomen, and a Stevie Awards for Women in Business in Public Relations. From 2022 to 2024, she volunteered over 2,000 hours in Sussex County community centers and founded Unlimited Expectations Express nonprofit. A local author of six books, Pastor, and Hospital Chaplain, Dr. Broughton lives by her own words.
“Live life like it’s your last day. Make every minute count, for tomorrow is not promised. Live in the moment.” — Dr. Alisha Broughton, Ed.D, PH.D.
Contact Dr. Alisha Broughton, Ed.D, PH.D.
Facebook: Alisha Broughton
LinkedIn: dralishabroughton
Instagram: alishabroughton
Dr. Tiffany Jones-Fisher, Ed.D. — A Visionary in Educational Innovation
Dr. Tiffany Jones-Fisher, Ed.D., is an accomplished educator with over a decade of experience in science instruction, curriculum development, and school leadership. A proven innovator, she excels in integrating technology ano research-based practices to boost student engagement and achievement. As an Assistant Principal and Teacher Retention Specialist, Dr. Fisher developed programs supporting new educators and forged strong school-community partnerships. Her expertise in data-driven decision-making, stakeholder collaboration, and professional development has transformed educational outcomes. Earning her doctorate from William Carey University, her research focused on professional learning communities’ impact on student success. Dr. Fisher is passionate about empowering educators and students.
“Empowering education through collaboration, innovation, and excellence.” — Dr. Tiffany Jones-Fisher
Contact: Dr. Tiffany Jones-Fisher, Ed.D.
Facebook: 1280ForwardEducationConsultants
Instagram: 1280Forward
Linktree: linktr.ee/drfisherl280forward
Shannel Williams — Championing Inclusivity in Education
Shannel Williams is a dedicated Special Needs Teacher with the NYCDOE, where she also serves as a Work-Based Learning Coordinator and Transition Team Leader. She excels at adapting general lessons to meet diverse student needs, designing activities tailored to individual abilities, and fostering collaboration with outside agencies and service providers. Shannel is passionate about creating inclusive learning environments that encourage critical thinking, exploration, and social growth. Her work focuses on empowering students and building supportive communities. With a deep commitment to making a positive impact, Shannel strives to ensure that every learner has the tools to grow and thrive.
“Educate, Empower, Inspire: Teach One, Reach One, Shape the Future.” — Shannel Williams
Contact Shannel Williams
Website: https://sswlearning.my.canva.site/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nelly.6_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s.w673/
Tammy Walsham — An Advocate for DEI in Education
Tammy Walsham has over 24 years of experience as an educator, with a lifelong passion for teaching that began at age five. Her career spans early childhood to high school, supported by two master’s degrees in education and current doctoral studies in educational leadership. Tammy’s extensive experience has given her unique insights into education’s complexities, particularly regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEl). Through her writing, she aims to clarify misconceptions about DEl and highlight its critical role in education. By fostering understanding, Tammy hopes to inspire meaningful discussions and solutions that create equitable opportunities for all students.
“An obstacle is only meant to be temporary unless you allow it to become permanent success is not the absence of failure, it’s persistence through failure.” — Tammy Walsham
Contact Tammy Walsham
Facebook: Tammy Walsham
Instagram: 1stladyTammy916
Email: Tammtcw@gmail.com
Get Ready to Rise with These Educators
With the release of Educators Rise: Voices of Change Anthology Volume 1, readers will gain insight into the journeys, struggles, and victories of the featured authors leading the way in education. The book is more than a tribute — it’s a call to action for equity, innovation, and progress in learning spaces.
Mark your calendars for April 25, 2025, and be sure to follow each author’s individual journey as they continue to make a lasting impact. Their personal websites and social media platforms will be great resources for updates, discussions, and further engagement.
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