Let’s talk about your road
Earning my doctorate was an arduous process punctuated by the unsettling twists and turns, ups and downs of being both a full-time graduate student and middle school math teacher. I was often vulnerable and fearful about my ability to successfully navigate the political, social, and intellectual terrain of Academe. Almost on cue, the Black Doctoral Network (BDN) was founded at a time when I sincerely needed community and role models who understood the specific challenges I faced as a doctoral student of color at a predominately White institution. I’ve found strength. I’ve found encouragement. I’ve found my voice. Best of all, I’ve found that being a member of BDN has given me the opportunity to reach back and pull other brothers and sisters along who care deeply about the issues affecting Black men, women, and children. The strength of our organization lies in the convening of Black thought leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers representative of every facet of our society, all in one place.
Chezare A. Warren, Ph.D.
Vanderbilt Peabody College
Associate Professor of Equity & Inclusion in Education Policy, Department of Leadership,
Policy, and Organizations
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