UNF Silverfield College of Education and Human Services Announces New L.E.A.D. Scholars
April 29, 2025
The University of North Florida (UNF) Silverfield College of Education and Human Services is proud to announce the newest recipients of the L.E.A.D. Scholars Fellowship, a distinguished program designed to cultivate leadership, scholarship, and academic excellence among exceptional doctoral students.
The L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, and Development) Scholars Program supports students who aspire to drive innovation and equity in education, academia, and community leadership. Through mentorship opportunities, research and publishing support, and professional development, L.E.A.D. Scholars are empowered to make significant contributions to educational practice and scholarship.
This year’s cohort of L.E.A.D. Scholars exemplifies a deep commitment to advancing education and equity. We are pleased to introduce our newest scholars:
Sheryl Patterson-Coulibaly is an educator, mentor, and emerging scholar whose work explores the intersections of research, advocacy, and empowerment. A Doctor of Education candidate in Educational Leadership, Sheryl focuses on creating spaces of belonging for marginalized populations, with particular emphasis on Black women in educational environments. Grounded in Black Feminist and Marxist theories and employing Narrative Inquiry, her research highlights personal stories that challenge dominant narratives and advocate for authenticity, agency, and systemic change. As a L.E.A.D. Scholar, she brings a passionate commitment to critical inquiry, mentorship, and liberation in educational spaces.
Dunia Jean Baptiste, a third-year doctoral student in Educational Leadership, brings 27 years of rich teaching experience across school districts in North Carolina, Maryland, and Florida. Her research investigates the lived experiences of Black male students in intensive reading programs, aiming to illuminate both challenges and pathways to success. Dunia is also passionate about enhancing positive and proactive parent communication among educators. Her dissertation, "Lived Experiences of Black Male Students in Intensive Reading: A Phenomenological Study," reflects her dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and advancing literacy achievement.
Through the L.E.A.D. Scholars Program, these outstanding doctoral students will engage in mentorship, research opportunities, professional development, and leadership training to help shape the future of education. The Silverfield College of Education and Human Services congratulates Sheryl, Artrice, and Dunia on their selection as L.E.A.D. Scholars and looks forward to the profound impact they will continue to make in their fields and communities.