Rema Reynolds Vassar

school culture, and organizational development, Dr. Rema has worked in both local and international contexts. She has trained educators, administrators, and counselors to address critical issues such as race, gender, and class within schools. Her research also focuses on how educational policies and practices affect student achievement, emphasizing fostering equity and inclusion for minoritized communities.

Rema Vassar’s extensive experience spans over two decades in K-12 education, where she has worked in various roles, including teacher, counselor, and administrator. Today, she is dedicated to improving the wellness of school communities by strengthening the connections between students, parents, and educators. She also serves on the Michigan State University Board of Trustees and teaches Educational Leadership at Wayne State University.

Vassar firmly believes in the power of education to drive social change. Her career has centered on creating collaborative spaces where communities can advocate for more inclusive educational practices. She has shared her research at conferences across the U.S. and over 20 countries, focusing on leadership and equity in education.

In 2021, Vassar founded Centering Black Children in Education (CBCE), a movement that supports Black children’s academic success and personal growth. CBCE hosts an annual free virtual conference that brings educators, parents, and community members together to address the challenges Black children face in education. The conference aims to create a platform for systemic change and resistance against the ongoing marginalization of Black children in schools.

Additionally, Vassar is the founder of Leading Well, a program that empowers Black women in educational leadership by offering resources, mentorship, and a supportive community. She is also involved with the Sankofa Scholarship Foundation, which provides scholarships to students pursuing higher education.

Vassar’s passion for education was influenced by her mother, who instilled a love of learning early in her life. This foundational support inspires her work, as she strives to create an educational system that allows all students to succeed.