Earlisha J. Whitfield

Earlisha J. Whitfield is an Assistant Professor of Reading at the University of Central Florida (UCF) and a Professor in Residence at Eccleston Elementary, a Community School in Orange County. She holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Louisiana State University (LSU), alongside M.A. and B.S. degrees in Education from LSU. Her work bridges academia and public education, focusing on literacy equity, community engagement, and diversifying the teacher workforce.

Dr. Whitfield’s research emphasizes improving literacy outcomes in underserved schools through family and community partnerships. She advocates for equitable access to quality literacy programs and has pioneered initiatives like the Director role in Call Me MiSTER, which recruits diverse educators. Her grants include collaborations with ExxonMobil to provide technological resources for disadvantaged students.

Her awards include National Board Certification in ELA, Louisiana’s Leading Lady Award, and recognition as a Phi Delta Kappan Emerging Leader. Dr. Whitfield has over 17 years of K-12 experience as a teacher, literacy specialist, and administrator, contributing to her hands-on approach in educational leadership.