In honor of Women’s History Month, the “Respect the EducateHER” panel is bringing together women across Memphis who are making an impact in education.
Event creator Sheleah Harris put together a panel of six local ladies who are leading in lanes of their own in hopes of not only elevating and celebrating their voices, but inspiring other women to follow in their footsteps.
“I wanted to pull together women who I’ve seen do ground-level work here in Memphis, “ Harris said. “This event is about honoring their work and allowing them to share their wisdom.”
- When: Saturday, March 21, 2020 (10:00AM – 11:30AM)
- Where: Novel Bookstore (387 Perkins Ext.)
- $: Free
Harris says she was intentional about selecting a diverse mix of seasoned and millennial educators, including:
- Dr. L. Sha Fanion, Director of Teacher Residency, Alder Graduate School of Education
- Tosha Downey, Director of Advocacy, Memphis Education Fund
- Karen Vogelsang, Executive Director, ARISE2Read
- Terri Oliver, Director, The Academy Child Care Center and Preschool
- Roblin Webb, Founder/CEO, Freedom Preparatory Academy Charter Schools
- Kenda Lawson, Instructional Designer, Professional Trainer & Coach, Owls Consulting, LLC
“I don’t want people just to come and consume,” Harris said. “This event is more about soaking up some wisdom and putting some action behind it.”
As the Executive Director of Living Grace, a local nonprofit that supports youth suffering from homelessness in the Greater Memphis area, Harris also hopes the event will serve as a catalyst for change. Community organizations will be on hand so that attendees can sign up on the spot to be a mentor, tutor, or volunteer.
Harris’ passion for education and uplifting women was also seen earlier this month as she hosted the 2nd annual InventHER Conference, a full day experience for high school girls to engage and explore opportunities in science and technology.
“This is a safe place for women to come and be vulnerable and to be filled up,” said Harris. “As women, we take care of everybody else. We really don’t pay attention to our own cup. So, this will be a Saturday morning where you can come and get your cup filled.”
Interested in joining the conversation? Reach out to Sheleah Harris for more information.
Want to volunteer or support Living Grace? Find out more information here.
Guest post by Ashley Davis Executive Director of Kifani Press
