Evangeline Akridge

Evangeline Akridge is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at the California School of Education, Alliant International University. She serves in the school counseling and school psychology programs and has been a core faculty member since 2015, with prior teaching experience in private universities since 2008. She has also held leadership roles as Program Coordinator and Program Director.

Education:

• B.A. in Psychology and African-American Studies – University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
• M.S. and Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Psychology – San Diego
• Psy.D. in Educational Psychology – Alliant International University
• Alcohol and Drug Counseling Degree

Dr. Akridge's research and professional interests emphasize Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB), social justice, community engagement, virtual education, parental involvement, and educationally related mental health. Her work is deeply rooted in supporting underserved populations and addressing systemic inequities in education. She focuses on social-emotional learning, juvenile diversion, and charter school environments, with clinical expertise in psychological assessment, special education law, and dual diagnosis.

Her recent scholarly contributions reflect a strong commitment to anti-racism, institutional equity, and faculty well-being. The themes across her publications and workshops include combating deprofessionalization of women of color in higher education, creating inclusive academic spaces, and enhancing parent engagement in K–12 settings. These works highlight her interdisciplinary approach bridging psychology, education policy, and community advocacy.

Professional Recognition and Contributions:

• Author of I Am The Expert of My Child Parent-Child Journals and founder of the Parent Engagement Movement
• Developer of the Community Resource Educational Support Team (C.R.E.S.T.) Model, implemented by Open Heart Leaders in San Diego
• Active presenter at national conferences including HICE and Charter Schools Development Center
• Expert witness in due process hearings since 2009

Dr. Akridge advises on community-based mental health initiatives and has led numerous workshops on anti-racism, leadership, and emotional resilience. While no formal grant history is listed, her applied work in schools, courts, and community agencies demonstrates significant impact. She is actively involved in teaching, advocacy, and organizational development, with no indication of part-time status or retirement.

Professional Affiliations and Credentials:

• Credentialed School Psychologist
• Licensed Educational Psychologist
• Licensed Clinical Forensic Counselor