Angela Kidd Vinson, Ed.D.
Angela Kidd Vinson, Ed.D., is an experienced educator and author based in Jefferson, Georgia, with more than three decades of dedicated service in public education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from The University of Georgia and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from Argosy University Atlanta. Throughout her career in Jefferson City Schools, she has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Director of Special/Gifted Education, Director of Federal Programs, System Test Coordinator, and Human Resources Specialist, demonstrating a strong commitment to student success and educational excellence.
Alongside her leadership work in K–12 education, Angela has also contributed to higher education as an adjunct instructor at Brenau University and Piedmont College, where she supported the development of future educators. Her work has consistently focused on curriculum design, instructional leadership, and creating inclusive learning environments that support diverse student populations. She was recognized early in her career as Teacher of the Year, reflecting her impact in the classroom and her dedication to teaching.
In addition to her professional accomplishments in education, Angela is also an author who embraces her passion for writing and storytelling. She published her children’s book I Learned the Most from RJ in 2020 under the pen name Dr. Annie Mae, honoring her grandmother. Today, she continues to focus on writing inspirational works aimed at encouraging courage, perseverance, and personal growth, with the goal of uplifting women and young readers as she transitions into retirement.
• The University of Georgia- B.S.Ed.
• Argosy University Atlanta- Ed.D.
• Piedmont University- M.A.
• Teacher of the Year
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to courage, stamina, and determination, and to my willingness to push through difficult times—including health challenges and the pandemic—to complete my doctorate and ultimately see my work published.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be strong and courageous. Know yourself. Know your strengths and your weaknesses, and be able to capitalize on your strengths and do whatever you need to do to make your weaknesses become strengths. Don't give up, don't worry about what people might say, and don't listen to any negative feedback. Trust yourself. Believe in yourself. And don't give up on your dreams, follow your dreams, because my dream to become an author was one that I had had for many, many years, and I almost gave up, but I didn't. I would just encourage people to not give up and to push through.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the challenges include the medical issue I faced with breast cancer, which was definitely a challenge. Another challenge is being able to reach specific audiences with my writing. I have something I want to put out there, but finding the right avenue to disseminate that information is a challenge. I know maybe once I fully retire, I'll have more time to focus on that, because it is something I really want to do. I'm hoping that once I retire, I'll have an opportunity to focus more on that and to find the right platform to get that information out there.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are courage, determination, and perseverance, along with a commitment to encouraging others and serving as a positive role model.