Influential Woman · Community Building | Education
LeRhonda Greats
Founder & Community Builder, Our Own Lane
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Her Story
About LeRhonda
LeRhonda Greats is the Founder and Community Builder of Our Own Lane, a professional community dedicated to supporting Black professionals working in independent and private schools. Drawing upon more than 25 years of leadership experience in education, she equips professionals with the guidance, confidence, and strategic support needed to navigate the often-unwritten rules of educational leadership. Through mentorship, coaching, and community building, she is committed to helping others thrive while creating spaces where authentic leadership can flourish.
LeRhonda began her career in 1998 as an intern in a computer science department and steadily advanced through a wide range of educational leadership positions, including teacher, department chair, dorm parent, advisor, counselor, dean, coach, summer program director, and ultimately Assistant Head for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Her extensive experience across instructional leadership, student development, technology education, and DEIB initiatives has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of independent schools and the unique opportunities and challenges faced by educators from underrepresented communities.
Today, LeRhonda focuses on expanding the impact of Our Own Lane by cultivating a supportive professional network for Black educators and school leaders. In addition to mentoring professionals, she is developing a historical initiative documenting the experiences and contributions of Black professionals in private schools. She holds a Master's Degree in Education from Liberty University, a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, and an Associate Degree in Computer Training and Technology Studies from DeVry University. Her career reflects a longstanding commitment to educational leadership, community building, equity, and empowering future generations of leaders.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with LeRhonda
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If you have a heart for helping others, education—especially private school education—is a meaningful profession with tremendous opportunities. The young people need committed leaders, and there are many pathways into the field. Bring your passion, continue learning, and recognize that your work has the power to shape lives and create lasting impact.
02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I see is securing funding when launching a business, particularly for entrepreneurs who begin their journey later in life. Building a business requires significant investment, and access to capital can be a barrier for many founders. I also believe there is an ongoing need to ensure that minority voices are heard, valued, and represented. Creating more opportunities for diverse perspectives to influence leadership, decision-making, and professional communities is essential to building more inclusive and equitable environments.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my work and my personal life are rooted in community, service, and purpose. I believe in creating spaces where people feel connected, supported, and empowered, while fostering a genuine sense of belonging so that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. I am passionate about representation and preserving the stories and experiences of Black professionals, ensuring their contributions are recognized and celebrated.
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