What's Happening?
Kioshana LaCount Burrell, a Ph.D. student at The Ohio State University, is focusing her research on workforce development with an emphasis on neurodivergent individuals, particularly those of color. Her journey from Gadsden, Alabama, to Columbus, Ohio, has been marked by a commitment to dismantling systemic barriers in education and workforce programs. Burrell's work is informed by her personal experiences with inequality and her professional background in career coaching and workforce development. She aims to reshape how institutions of higher education incorporate individuals with cognitive and intellectual disabilities into mainstream classrooms. Under the mentorship of Dr. Donna Y. Ford, Burrell is applying multicultural education frameworks to special education contexts, a novel approach in her field.
Why It's Important?
Burrell's research and advocacy are significant as they address the compounded challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals of color in the workforce. Her work aims to create more inclusive educational environments, which could lead to better socioeconomic outcomes for marginalized groups. By focusing on systemic change, Burrell is contributing to a broader movement towards equity and justice in education and workforce development. Her efforts could influence policy changes and inspire other institutions to adopt similar inclusive practices, potentially benefiting a wide range of stakeholders, including educators, students, and employers.
What's Next?
Burrell plans to complete her Ph.D. coursework within the next year and is already making progress on her dissertation. Her post-graduation plans include pursuing administrative roles that could drive institutional change in higher education. She aims to work as a director of workforce development programs or within student disability services to better integrate individuals with cognitive disabilities into mainstream education. Her strategic choice to work at Ohio State University provides her with tuition benefits and health insurance, supporting her family while she continues her studies.
Beyond the Headlines
Burrell's work highlights the ethical and cultural dimensions of workforce development, particularly the need for inclusive practices that recognize the diverse needs of neurodivergent individuals. Her research could lead to long-term shifts in how educational institutions approach diversity and inclusion, potentially setting new standards for workforce development programs across the country.
