She is an award-winning educator who believes that education should be easily accessed by all and seeks opportunities to advance her mantra. She vows to stand up, speak up and show up for the oppressed. Cheryl has served as a board member for several organizations that impact teaching and learning within the state of Illinois, including Advance Illinois, RS Africa Special and the Golden Apple Foundation. Her educational interests include teacher and paraeducator preparation, cultural language and its effect on literacy, supporting the teaching and learning of individuals with disabilities, understanding middle school, and advancing the teaching profession. Dr. Watkins stands on this mantra shared by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “the time to do right is always the right time.”

Dr. Cheryl D. Watkins is a much sought after and respected speaker at schools and education organizations, is an adjunct professor and a published author. Additional information about her contributions to the field of education, and beyond, can be found at https://linktr.ee/CherylDWatkins.