Janie S. Torain

Janie S. Torain is a nationally recognized educator, minister, author, and lifelong advocate for student success whose career in education spans more than four decades. For 41 years, she has served students in Roxboro, North Carolina, beginning her career in exceptional children's education before transitioning into Career and Technical Education (CTE), where she has taught business, finance, information technology, computer science, and emerging education pathways. Today, she teaches an honors-level course focused on teaching as a profession, preparing the next generation of educators by emphasizing student engagement, leadership, communication, and critical interpersonal skills. Passionate about balancing technology with meaningful human connection, she incorporates strategies such as daily unplugged time, peer tutoring, and hands-on learning to help students become confident, well-rounded individuals.

Dr. Sheeley-Torain's commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in her exceptional academic achievements. She earned both her Doctor of Education and Educational Specialist degrees in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, a Master of Arts in Education Technology from North Carolina Central University, and a Master of Divinity from Cedars of Lebanon Bible College and Theological Seminary. A National Board Certified Teacher, she has also served as an online instructor for Piedmont Community College and the North Carolina Virtual Public School, while mentoring future educators and contributing to educational innovation. Beyond the classroom, she is the founder of PROPEL Academy and the author of several Christian books, including her A Quick Guide series on ministry leadership and a children's book that reflects her passion for faith-based learning and character development.

In addition to her educational leadership, Dr. Sheeley-Torain has faithfully served for more than 30 years as an evangelist and preacher, dedicating her life to ministry, teaching, and community service. A devoted mother of seven, grandmother of 28, and great-grandmother of 19, she considers family, faith, integrity, honesty, and service to be the foundation of her life's work. She credits her success to God's guidance and the example set by her parents—especially her father, a World War II veteran whose strong work ethic and belief in education shaped her life's mission. Whether inspiring students, mentoring educators, writing, preaching, or traveling to broaden perspectives, Dr. Sheeley-Torain remains committed to empowering others through knowledge, faith, and compassionate leadership.