Carolyn Strong

Carolyn Strong has been working in education for 24 years. Her entry into the field was inspired by positive experiences with educators during her childhood, coupled with a desire to fill the gap she felt in having someone who truly saw her. In her consulting roles, a typical day involves fact-finding, information gathering, data aggregation, and creating plans to help schools become the best versions of themselves. She has overcome challenges such as public misunderstanding of educators' roles, unfunded mandates, and inconsistent support for meeting students where they are by intentionally integrating cultural responsiveness and ensuring students feel seen and heard. Carolyn is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho sorority for nearly 30 years, the National Association of Black School Educators for approximately 15 years, and the Illinois Education Association. She serves as board president of the nonprofit Living at the Intersections, which supports women and non-binary emerging adults in being their authentic selves.