Shaquise Elie is a dedicated educator and DEI professional currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Policy at Vanderbilt University. His academic and research interests include Critical Race Theory in educational leadership and school improvement, and racial dynamics within majority Black education spaces. His passion for creating inclusive and equitable educational environments was ignited through his experiences in diverse educational settings across Boston, Los Angeles, and Montgomery County, Maryland. Witnessing firsthand the disparities in resources and opportunities, Shaquise became committed to fostering environments where every student’s identity is acknowledged and celebrated. He began his career as a Special Education teacher and advanced to Assistant Principal, where he led the development and expansion of DEI initiatives.

Currently, as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism (DEIA) at Ascend Charter Schools, Shaquise has crafted and implemented strategic DEIA action plans and driven significant improvements in school culture. His work strikes a balance between using data and personal stories to enhance recruitment and retention strategies and drive continuous improvement. Additionally, Shaquise has worked with non-profit organizations focused on retaining Black men in education. His personal and professional ethos is centered on authenticity and an asset orientation towards students, families, and educators. He views education as a powerful tool for empowerment and social change, aiming to ensure that every child receives a high-quality education, regardless of their address.