Chief Equity Strategist
Dr. Darrell Ray has held several positions at a diverse range of institutions, including the University of Georgia, the Art Institute of Atlanta, Louisiana State University, University of Memphis, and Rhodes College. He has presented nationally and internationally and worked with organizations abroad to better position them in meeting their goals. Education credentials include a BA and MA from the University of Alabama and PhD from the University of Georgia. Additional trainings and certifications are in fundraising, grant-writing, and diversity, equity, & inclusion, and group facilitation.
Trained as an educator, Dr. Ray’s 25- year background as an executive-level administrator, faculty member, and trainer, has positioned him to become one of higher education’s thought leaders in the equity, instruction, and strategic planning. Dr. Ray’s deep understanding of the interplay between equity and diversity position him to assist organizations in equity-related training, equity-centered coaching, strategic planning, and implementation.
Aleidra Allen, MA
Equity Strategist
Aleidra Allen is a social change advocate and entrepreneur. With a background in higher education administration. Since 2017, Aleidra has served as a diversity consultant and facilitator. In these roles, she has developed trainings and workshops for universities, corporations, and civic organizations. Aleidra has shared her perspectives to larger platforms as a recurring guest on HuffPost Live. She has also been published on Watch The Yard and Blavity.
Aleidra received her Bachelor of Science in Community Communications and Leadership Development from the University of Kentucky (UK). She later earned her Master of Arts in Education (specialization in Higher Education Administration) from Louisiana State University (LSU). Aleidra is a member of Action St. Louis, a grassroots racial justice organization that seeks to build political power for Black communities in the St. Louis region.
Adam Elder, PhD
Research & Policy Analyst
Dr. Adam Elder has held a variety of positions public education as a professor of research methodology, as a data analyst for K-12 and postsecondary institutions, and as a math teacher. He also has research experience in the nonprofit sector. Adam received a Ph.D. in Educational Research Methodology with a minor in statistics and an M.A. in Applied Research, Measurement, & Evaluation from Louisiana State University as well as a B.S. in Mathematics Education from Auburn University.
His research has primarily focused on research methods instruction and data use in education, and he is a member of multiple professional organizations related to educational research
Kofi Whitehead
Policy Analyst
Kofi Whitehead is a recent graduate of Rhodes College (Memphis, TN). with a BA in English focus in Creative Writing and a Certificate in Journalism. Kofi graduated as a member of both the English and History Honor Societies. He was extremely active in the Memphis community as a participant in the Bonner Scholarship Program. Additionally, he was a student athlete on the Rhodes College Baseball team.