Alayna Washington

My name is Alayna Washington and I am from Ann Arbor, Michigan. I graduated with my BA in Secondary Education and Economics from Michigan State University in 2013. While attending Michigan State University, I was involved in a variety of organizations.  I held leadership positions in Academic Excellence, Youth Mentoring and Women’s Leadership organizations. Additionally, I worked for the Michigan Department of Education as a policy analyst. My role was to analyze educational policies and incorporate student voice into the policy-making process. My experience in undergrad is what motivated me to further a career in education.  I am currently teaching Honors United States History, Economics and Honors Ethnic Studies at Whitney M. Young Magnet High School in Chicago, Illinois while pursuing my Masters of Education through Michigan State University. My life goal is to make a lasting and positive impact on the education system in the United States. Since my undergraduate years at Michigan State University (2010-2013), I have been motivated to improve education in high areas of need and urban centers. Additionally, I have been motivated to instill social consciousness and awareness of society and individuals through education. I have always been and currently am involved in social justice awareness initiatives. My short-term career goals are to receive my Masters in Education and thrive in my current teaching position at Whitney M. Young Magnet High School by instilling social consciousness and social justice frameworks in the minds of my students. My long-term career goals are to obtain a PhD in Educational Policy and establish reform efforts to improve underserved and underrepresented populations. I would also like to establish my own non-profit based on teaching social justice, economic literacy and raising funds to support youth participating in global education experiences.  I joined the Y.A.B network because I believe that it is necessary for women of color to support and uplift one another, all while initiating change in their respective communities and the community at large. I am proud to be a member of an organization that recognizes the success, excellence, and innovative minds of women of color!

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