Biographical Narrative

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Deborah Harris PhD., an esteemed educator and researcher, joins forces with Tonya Fewell, J.D., a passionate advocate for education and community empowerment, to lead our organization toward unparalleled success.

Deborah Harris PhD. brings over 45 years of dedicated experience to our leadership team. Formerly an Associate Professor at the University of South Florida (USF), her tenure focused on inclusive education, collaboration, and intrinsic motivation. Dr. Harris' illustrious career includes teaching at both USF and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she received top accolades for her teaching excellence. Before her academic career, Dr. Harris spent a decade teaching children with special needs in public schools. Her commitment to inclusive education is reflected in her work with school districts since 1993, where she has facilitated the implementation of inclusive programs nationally and internationally. Dr. Harris' signature style empowers educators, resulting in substantive change and improved outcomes. She holds degrees from Bennett College, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and has completed fellowships and internships at esteemed institutions such as the Bush Institute for Child and Family Policy and the Free University of Amsterdam.

Tonya Fewell, J.D., complements our leadership with her diverse expertise spanning law, education, and community engagement. A graduate of Spelman College and the University of Florida Levin College of Law, Fewell is deeply committed to ensuring every child receives an exemplary education. With over two decades of experience, she has served in various capacities within the education sector, embodying her belief in a "no failure option" teaching approach. Beyond education, Fewell is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator and Qualified Arbitrator, lending her expertise to resolve complex issues. As a single mother and neuro-diverse individual, Fewell's personal experiences drive her commitment to fostering inclusion and advocating for marginalized communities.

Together, Dr. Deborah Harris and Tonya Fewell form a dynamic leadership duo. With their combined expertise, unwavering dedication, and shared vision for transformative change, they steer our organization towards a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.