Dr. Shuana K. Tucker, Skip of ‘86

1. In what ways did your Ursuline education prepare you for the work you’re doing now?
Ursuline provided me with an excellent education that prepared me academically and socially for my future. During my years at Ursuline, I came to appreciate the learning community in which I was a part of. Understanding that we all have strengths and weaknesses in various subject areas, you were expected to always do your best, thus sharing a common vision of educational excellence. As an Assistant Professor in Educational Leadership, I value the diversity of my students and their experiences. I expect each of them to always do their best and hold myself to the same standards. The goal which connects us is educational excellence and an appreciation for diversity.

2. Please describe the most significant value you learned from Ursuline Academy.
The most significant value I learned from Ursuline is that of providing service to others. I remind myself daily of the many blessings bestowed upon me, which drives me to continually provide service to persons that are less fortunate and in need. I am involved and hold leadership positions in several organizations whose main thrust is that of providing community service. It always proves to be a rewarding experience.

3. Describe Ursuline in one word.
SERVIAM

ABOUT DR. SHUANA K. TUCKER

Dr. Shuana K. Tucker is Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership and Research Assistant for the Center for Education Policy Analysis at the University of Connecticut. She has a Ph.D. in Educational Policy Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Public Administration from Louisiana State University, and B.S. in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana. Dr. Tucker is currently researching issues related to urban schooling, namely school climate and culture, achievement of African-American students, mentoring and leadership. She has conducted additional research on African American philanthropy and education, Private Black Colleges and the United Negro College Fund, Black women’s organizations and their philanthropic impact on education, and Black women leaders. Dr. Tucker has published work in the Journal of African American History and other venues. Prior to joining UCONN, Dr. Tucker worked at the US Department of Education, The McKenzie Group, Texas Instruments and Hartford Public Schools. She holds membership in: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, The Links, Incorporated, Jack & Jill of America, Incorporated, the American Educational Research Association and Phi Delta Kappa to name a few. She is married to John P. Sims, has one son Evan J. Battiste and resides in Middlebury, Connecticut.