Emily aims to advocate for resources and solutions that support both students and educators, particularly in underserved communities.

Emily Atkinson is an educator currently pursuing her master’s degree in educational leadership and policy. After earning her bachelor’s degree, Emily joined Teach For America and relocated to Nashville, TN, where she taught high school students. Emily quickly recognized the barriers her students faced, such as homelessness, food insecurity, and lack of transportation. She found local resources for food and shelter, personally drove students to school, and developed school-wide protocols for pronoun use to support LGBTQIA+ students. Emily’s dedication led to her promotion to a grade-level chair after just one year, where she further refined her skills in organization, leadership, and communication. Even after Emily left the classroom, her students reached out to her for support. 

Despite her love for teaching, the demands of the job eventually led to burnout. Seeking a change, Emily transitioned into a career as a software developer, using this time to focus on personal growth and exploration. She and her partner traveled the country, living in various states for three months at a time, and during this period, Emily developed a clearer sense of self and her priorities. She realized that her true calling was in the field she had initially left behind.

In her master’s program, Emily focuses on understanding the broader educational system and enhancing her skills in statistical analysis to create evidence-based policies that promote equity and access in education. Drawing from her experiences in the classroom and her analytical skills from her time as a developer, Emily aims to advocate for resources and solutions that support both students and educators, particularly in underserved communities. Her journey from the classroom to the policy arena is driven by a deep-seated belief in the promise of education and a commitment to making systemic change.

CEW+ commends Emily’s vision and names her the AAUW-Ann Arbor Branch Used Book Sale Scholar.