Dr. Shameka N. Gerald is a disruptor and visionary leader, bringing over two decades of experience in educational leadership to her role at 2Revolutions. Her background encompasses a variety of roles, including mathematics teacher, school leader, district leader, and most recently, Vice President of Learning at Pharrell Williams' education non-profit YELLOW. Dr. Gerald's strategic leadership has not only supported the development of innovative learning models but has also centered co-creation alongside communities through coalition-building and the amplification of youth voice. Her approach is deeply rooted in inclusivity, striving to create educational opportunities that are accessible to all. Through strategic planning and cultivating national and local partnerships, she ensures that systems change is both sustainable and impactful.

A proud graduate of Tidewater Community College, Dr. Gerald furthered her education at Old Dominion University with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Regent University and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from Virginia Polytechnic and State University.

How do you think about catalyzing change?

How I think about change is rooted in a quote from Audre Lorde “Without community, there is no liberation...but community must not mean a shedding of our differences, nor the pathetic pretense that these differences do not exist.” I believe catalyzing change is a collective effort that requires the authentic engagement of the entire community. To create meaningful and sustainable change, we must build coalitions that bring together diverse perspectives, skills, and resources. Through building relational trust and nurturing collaboration, we can drive impactful transformations that resonate globally.

Why are you passionate about transforming education?

The education system was not designed for a learner like me. As a Black cisgender womxn with ADHD, I was often labeled a “disruption” because my curiosity and sense of justice challenged the status quo. Despite being recognized as smart, I was rarely seen for who I was or what I needed. I was labeled as “too much”. 

I am passionate about transforming education to create a system that honors each learner's uniqueness and allows each person to show up authentically. I envision a system where young people can express their needs without fear, have agency over their learning, and explore subjects that genuinely interest them. Education should elevate and affirm the value of each person's lived experiences, contributing to our collective growth as a community.