Carolyn Strong graduated from Weinberg in 1999 in African-American Studies. Now a Doctor of Education, Dean of Students, and President of her own education consulting company, Strong has dedicated her life and career to equity for the Black community.
What inspired you to pursue a major or minor in the Department of African American Studies (AFAM)?
I have always been interested in the history and culture of my people. When I look back on it, I have always been a student of African American history and culture. It wasn’t until I actually came to NU as a psychology major that I learned that I could in fact earn a degree in African American studies. Once I learned that, I promptly changed my major and never looked back.
How did your studies in the AFAM department impact you personally or professionally?
Well, I am an educator that focuses on educating Black and brown children through a lens of equity. I develop coursework for educators that centers the needs of marginalized students and helps schools reenvision their school climate and culture through an equity lens. The work that I have chosen to do in my daily life is steeped in the lessons that I learned from my AFAM professors.
Is there a specific course, event, or memory associated with the AFAM department that sticks out to you from your time at Northwestern?
There are so many, as I was not only a major, but I worked in the office as well. But, if I have to choose… I would have to say that some of my fondest memories have to be anytime that I got to take a class with Leon Forrest. He was such a great storyteller and an amazing teacher. He made the south side of Chicago come alive when he talked about it; and as a native southsider, I found comfort in his words as I ventured into newfound territory.
What are you working on right now that excites you the most OR are there any accomplishments you would like to share?
Recently, I have been working to grow my platform Strong Conversations that provides services to schools and the community at large regarding educational equity and anti-racism. We just had a panel discussion surrounding equity in schools for marginalized groups that I am very proud of. I am in the process of scheduling follow up conversations with educators across the country. I am extremely excited about where we go from here. I also am a part of another platform called Centering Sister with an amazing psychologist and a best selling author that unapologetically centers the needs of Black women. We are working on some programming this summer that is centered around healing.
What’s a fun fact that you want to share with the Northwestern community?
My daughter is a current AFAM major and graduating senior. I guess things have come full circle for me!
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
On the rare occasion that I have free time, I can usually be found reading or watching movies.