Dr. Marquia Whitehead is an award-winning professor, DEIAB strategist, life and career coach, professional writer, and entrepreneur who possesses a Doctorate in Education, specifically Educational Leadership. Additionally, she received a Graduate Certification in Professional Writing. Starting her career at Louisiana State University as an English Professor, she previously served as an Assistant Director of Multicultural Recruitment and an Assistant Director of Retention & Strategic Initiatives. She also served as the Director of Education at Blue Cliff College. Currently, she is the owner of Dr. Kia Consulting, DEI Sensitivity Reviewer, Project Based Writer, Contract Professional Development Instructor, Instructional Coach & Facilitator, Adjunct English and Research Professor at several colleges and universities, and College Advisor. Dr. Whitehead’s doctoral research entitled African American Women in Leadership in Higher Education and the Glass Ceiling has won awards and been presented at several conferences. She is also the creator of a book club – Catch That Read! Her passion and research consist of all aspects of education; diversity, equity, and inclusion; people of color and literacy; disenfranchised communities; retention for marginalized groups; diversity and inclusion; and women’s empowerment and leadership. She is also currently a board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Acadiana and member of Leadership Lafayette’s Class XXXV. Collectively, Dr. Whitehead has over ten years of experience in education. Personally, Dr. Whitehead enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and overall enjoying every aspect of life.