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Amanda Addison
PhD Student at Vanderbilt University
Professional Background
Amanda Addison is a dedicated education professional with a robust background in teaching, educational policy, and administration. Currently enrolled as a Ph.D. student at Vanderbilt University's Peabody College, Amanda is focused on Higher Education Policy, diving deep into the complexities that shape educational systems today. Her passion for education is coupled with her extensive practical experience, having worked in various roles that bridge the gap between policy and classroom experience.
Amanda’s career began as a Secondary Mathematics Teacher with Teach for America, where she developed her foundational teaching skills and a fervent commitment to educational equity. She went on to serve as an Upper School Mathematics Teacher at Newark Academy, where she not only taught but also took on the role of Director of Equity and Inclusion, ensuring that all students had access to a fair and inclusive educational experience.
Her administrative talents were further showcased in her position as the Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Program Evaluation at the University of Pennsylvania. Here, Amanda adeptly analyzed admissions data and developed strategies to improve student access, demonstrating her strong analytical skills and commitment to fostering diversity within the student body.
Moreover, Amanda has significant experience in higher education policy, honed during her time as a Policy Intern at Lumina Foundation. In this position, she contributed to initiatives aimed at increasing postsecondary attainment and championing equitable access to higher education, aligning perfectly with her aspirations in her Ph.D. program.
Additionally, Amanda has shared her knowledge as an Adjunct Professor at Montclair State University through the Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship Program, where she inspired the next generation of educators and shared insights into education policy and practice.
Education and Achievements
Amanda's educational journey is marked by both depth and diversity, reflecting her commitment to understanding education from multiple perspectives. She earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in African Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, where she developed a keen interest in cultural contexts and their impact on education. This foundational knowledge has greatly informed her approach to teaching and policy development.
Continuing her academic pursuits, Amanda completed her Master of Science (M.S.) in Education at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania. This program provided her with a solid grounding in educational theory and practice, which she applies in her diverse roles.
Currently, she is progressing towards her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Higher Education Policy at Vanderbilt University. This pursuit showcases Amanda's dedication to contributing to the field of education on a research level, with a focus on policy frameworks that promote equitable access to education, ensuring that all barriers are dismantled to foster student success across demographics.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Amanda has made significant contributions to the field of education. Notable achievements include developing innovative programs that enhance inclusivity within schools, particularly during her tenure as the Director of Equity and Inclusion at Newark Academy. Her policy analysis and program evaluation skills have been invaluable in her role at the University of Pennsylvania, where her work enhanced the admissions process, aligning it closely with diversifying the student population.
Amanda's commitment to students extends beyond her professional responsibilities. She is a strong advocate for educational equity and access, having engaged in initiatives at Lumina Foundation that focus on increasing college completion rates for underrepresented groups. This dedication to educational equity has positioned her as a thought leader within the field.
As an educator and a Ph.D. candidate, Amanda continues to influence education policy and practice, ensuring that her work remains impactful and aligns with her belief in providing comprehensive educational opportunities to all learners. Her academic endeavors, coupled with her practical experience and focus on equity, exemplify a professional committed to making a difference in the field of education.